Denver installs Cambodian-themed mural on Ruby Hill Park pump house

Ruby Hill Park in Denver will receive a new public art installation in late November. The project, titled 'Home,' is a collaborative effort between metal sculptor Vanny Channal, muralist Ratha Sok, and painter Joe Miller. It will be mounted on the park's pump house structure.

The piece is described by the artists as a sculptural mural. It covers the structure in a full 360-degree view. The design combines two-dimensional painting with three-dimensional metal elements. This format allows viewers to see the artwork from every angle as they walk around the building.

Channal provides the sculptural components, which include butterflies and bees made from metal. Miller paints these specific metal pieces. Sok contributes the background mural. The artists state they are sharing their Cambodian heritage through the work. Sok noted, 'Vanny and I are sharing our Cambodian experience.'

The visual content of the mural includes portraits of immigrants and refugees. It also features natural imagery and local landmarks. Miller mentioned that the skyline, light rail, and convention center are included in the design. The artists aim to capture the specific feel of the Ruby Hill neighborhood.

Sok has a personal history with the area and the medium of street art. He recalled spending time in a juvenile detention center after being caught doing graffiti. He now views the project as a chance to contribute to the community where he grew up. He said, 'I was just a kid running around that neighborhood, and now I have this opportunity to create a public art piece that will live there for many years.'

Channal describes metal as a material that reflects strength and fragility. He said, 'Metal is robust. It’s strong. But sometimes it can also be weak and brittle, and it gets dirty because of the elements around it.' He hopes the finished work will make residents feel a sense of belonging when they visit the park.

The project is funded by the City of Denver. Denver Public Art allocates 1% of every municipal capital improvement project budget to create public art. This program supports the creation of permanent works in public spaces across the city. The installation is scheduled to be completed by the end of November.