Sep 16, 2026 —
Fresno City College invites students, faculty, and community members to the official unveiling of a public art installation at the West Fresno Center. The ceremony takes place on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the West Fresno Center water feature (600 E. Church Avenue, Fresno, CA 93706).
The new artwork pairs vibrant ceramic “quilt” tiles with a relief sculpture to honor the history, cultural traditions, and resilience of the West Fresno community. The piece connects local cultural history—drawing inspiration from regional quilting traditions—with a focal relief sculpture inspired by historical images of the West Fresno community.
“This remarkable art installation is a powerful testament to the vibrant history, resilience, and rich cultural traditions of West Fresno,” said Fresno City College President Denise Whisenhunt. “By honoring the deep roots of our community—from the artistry of local traditions to the pioneering leaders who shaped our neighborhood—this piece transforms our West Fresno Center into a space of reflection, pride, and ongoing connection for generations to come,” she added.
Core Project Team & Lead Artists:
Hiromi Iyoda (Lead Artist, FCC Ceramics Faculty): She is an international artist and educator who studied at CSU Long Beach and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Iyoda utilizes high-durability ceramic traditions to create lasting visual stories.
Caleb Duarte (Lead Artist, FCC Sculpture Faculty): Raised in Central Valley farm working communities, Duarte brings international experience in community-based public art. Locally, his work is featured at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport and Chinatown’s Monarch Housing.
Elena Harvey Collins (Project Curator/Coordinator, FCC Art Space Gallery & Art History Faculty): Curator at FCC since 2017, she has previous experience at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, Collins focuses on art exploring the relationship between people and place.
Ronda Kelley (Project Guide, FCC African American Art Faculty): A West Fresno native, Kelley works in fiber, craft, and assemblage, providing deep local ties and cultural guidance for the project.
The unveiling ceremony will feature brief remarks from college leaders and the core project team, followed by an opportunity to meet the artists.