Stars and Stripesis a series of large-scale sculptures that form an immersive public art environment within the 26.5-acre park in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The project combines monumental sculpture, light, landscape, astronomy, and storytelling into a civic space focused on reflection, exploration, and community gathering. Developed through more than 100 community interviews, the project emphasizes gratitude, curiosity, and shared civic identity rather than functioning as a traditional memorial.

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At the center of the park is a collection of illuminated star sculptures and patriotic forms etched with quotes and imagery gathered from veterans, first responders, and frontline medical professionals. During the day, sunlight filters through layered translucent materials and cut metal forms. At night, integrated lighting transforms the park into a glowing landscape of projected text, symbols, and light.

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A second major component explores astronomy and planetary scale through an illuminated sculptural sundial and solar system installation. Planetary markers trace orbital distances across the site, creating a walkable experience that connects visitors to the scale of the universe.

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Throughout the park, sculpture, landscape, and infrastructure work together to create a civic landmark that functions as a memorial space, educational environment, and community destination.

 

Major Artwork Components:

 

3 Illuminated Stars

The core of the project is a series of monumental illuminated stars etched with quotes from veterans, first responders, frontline medical workers, and symbolic imagery related to service and sacrifice. Internally illuminated cut-metal and translucent materials project light, text, and imagery outward into the surrounding environment at night.

 

Sculptural Wave

A large ribbon-like sculptural form representing the “stripes” portion of the American flag. The piece functions both as a visual anchor and as an environmental divider within the park composition.

 

Interactive Sundial

The centerpiece of the Celestial Plaza is an approximately 20-foot-tall sculptural sundial composed of metal ring structures, translucent color panels, and interactive shadow and light behavior throughout the day.

 

9 Planets

Planetary markers are spaced proportionally across the site to demonstrate orbital relationships and astronomical scale. The solar system installation includes illuminated sculptural representations of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, which was intentionally included. Each planet glows at night.

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Date: 

2025

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Location: 

Stars and Stripes Park in Tradition, Port St. Lucie, FL

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Dimensions:

Stripes: 44’8” L x 12’2” W x 9’7” H

Stars: between 7’ D x 6’2” H - 19’5” D x 17’ H

Planets: between 1’3” L x 4” W x 1’1” H - 6’11” L x 4” W x 6’1” H

Sundial: 22’2” L x 23’6” W x 20’ H

 

Medium: 

Stripes: Polycarbonate, Stainless Steel

Stars: Stainless Steel, LED Lighting

Planets: Polycarbonate, Stainless Steel, LED Lighting

Sundial: Stainless Steel, Glass

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Artists:

Joseph O’Connell + Creative Machines