Joliet's Dome Of Unity: 2 Public Work Sessions With Los Angeles-Based Artist Set For Next Week

JOLIET, IL — Joliet's media relations director Rosemaria DiBenedetto issued a press release on Thursday revealing that the city will conduct two public workshops next week with the Los Angeles-based artist from China who is being paid $197,000 to create the downtown Dome of Unity sculpture.

The highly unpopular and controversial art piece was approved on Sept. 16 in a 5-4 Joliet City Council vote with Mayor Terry D'Arcy casting the tie-breaking vote. Voting for the Dome of Unity were D'Arcy, Pat Mudron, Sherri Reardon, Suzanna Ibarra and Cesar Cardenas. Voting against the Dome of Unity were Jan Quillman, Larry Hug, Joe Clement and newly elected Juan Moreno.

According to Thursday's press release, "The City of Joliet Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events invites community members to take part in two upcoming workshops with artist Sijia Chen, the creator of the Unity Dome sculpture for City Square.

"Learn about the history and tradition of papercut art. Explore how papercutting inspired the Unity Dome design. Participate in a hands-on papercutting session. Bring paper-based items such as photos, memorabilia, etc. to contribute your personal story and community values."

Joliet Patch has previously reported that the 12-foot-tall, 19-foot-wide domed structure will serve as a focal point within City Square.

As for next week, Joliet's two public events are as follows:

Friday, October 17, 5–7 p.m., Thigpen Elementary School, 207 S. Midland Ave.

Saturday, October 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Hartman Recreation Center, 511 Collins Street.

Light refreshments will be served.

"Community participation will help ensure the Unity Dome sculpture reflects Joliet’s identity becoming a timeless public art landmark, a gathering point, and the culmination of a community movement," DiBenedetto's press announcement noted.

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