The City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture and Dallas Park and Recreation departments will host the dedication of "The Offering," a sculptural mural by artists Jhonattan and Samantha Arango. The event will take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Jaycee Zaragoza Recreation Center, located at 3114 Clymer St., Dallas TX 75212. The ceremony will feature remarks from the artists, local officials, and community leaders. The event is free and open to the public.
District 6 Council Member Omar Narvaez expressed enthusiasm for the new artwork, stating, “It is exciting to have more artwork on display especially this one that is created by residents for residents here in the Ledbetter Eagle Ford, West Dallas neighborhood. Having this piece showcases the pride of our community and reflects the vibrant and dynamic spirit of our neighborhood. It will be a great reminder for those who participated anytime they visit the Jaycee Zaragoza Recreation Center.”
"The Offering" is an ode to immigrants and their sacrifices associated with migrating to a new country. For Jhonattan Arango, a Cuban-born immigrant and former Navy medic, the piece reflects the emotional journey of his mother during his deployments, marked by worry, acceptance, encouragement, and quiet dignity.
The artists noted, "This piece is informed by the history of the neighborhood, which has a strong Latinx population and a history of military service and community activism. It honors community spaces such as the Jaycee Zaragoza Recreation Center, where so many people come to experience the love and support available to us here, regardless of where we come from."
For more information about the Dallas Public Art Program, visit: dallasculture.org/publicart.
