Mosaic of Women Plaza

Women’s Studies Center
25th Anniversary Initiative
Florida International University

Mosaic of Women Plaza - FIU
25th Anniversary Initiative

“The Fountain that has no name”

Purpose

The Mosaic of Women Plaza at FIU is intended to:

- Create a lasting tribute to women across cultures and the ages
- Combine academics, art, and architecture
- Create a unique landscape area for all
- Challenge the community to invest in the future of Women’s Studies (endowment)

Tribute Will Honor Women by Naming & Biography

- Mothers, daughters, sisters
- Women of different cultures
- Notable women in business, science, arts, religion, and other interest areas
- Women across the ages

Academics, Art, & Architecture

- Collaboration with the School of Architecture concerning gender and landscapes
- Oral history projects with the women who are honored
- May feature women in specific areas such as the arts, science, & business
- Brings together women and men from a broad spectrum of interests, ages, and cultures to celebrate women’s contributions

Inspiration

- Wichita State University Plaza of Heroines
- Community Board (40 individuals)
- Hundreds of donors
- Created a plaza, an endowment, and a lasting tribute to women

The Plaza of Heroines at
Wichita State University

	Plaza of Heroines

The Plaza of Heroines at
Wichita State University

In 1989, the Center established the Community Council to enhance the visibility and support the mission of Women's Studies.

The Plaza of Heroines was made possible through the efforts of Community Council members, Women's Studies faculty, and the WSU Endowment Association.

Proceeds from the plaza project support the Center for Women's Studies student research scholarship fund and other community outreach activities.

Unique Aspects of the WichitaSU
Plaza of Heroines

Provides open access to individuals and groups to pay tribute to any woman, living or deceased.

Landscaping and a sweep of benches enhance the circular plaza, where bricks are engraved with the names of women honored.

Central location on campus

Touch-screen computer displays personal histories and reflections for each honoree.

A sculpture enhances the center of the Plaza – Danseuse Espagnole ("Spanish Dancer") by Sophia Vari

Contemporary & Historical Record

- http://plaza.wichita.edu/heroines/
- Locator map for women named
- Website with biography

Other Women’s Studies Plazas

- Arizona State University (in progress)

- Iowa State University
3,200 bricks

Mosaic of Women Plaza-FIU
25th Anniversary Initiative

“The Fountain that has no name”

Mosaic of Women Plaza-FIU
25th Anniversary Initiative

Mosaic of Women Plaza-FIU
25th Anniversary Initiative

Landscape Architects

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- Teresa Falcon, Landscape Architect, has agreed to design the Mosaic of Women Plaza
- Dr. Juan Bueno, Dean of the School of Architecture at FIU also will contribute
- One or more architecture students will be involved in the project

ACTION ITEMS

Expand the WS Board and circle of advocates
Contribute ideas to the design
Write in support of allocation of FIU space
Lobby influential individuals at FIU
Help create the historical record of women’s contributions, including your own
Pledge a donation