“… for culture is a pyramid to which each of us brings a stone.”
—Wallace Stegner, The American West as Living Space

What We Build Together challenges traditional ideas of power by placing community members at the top. The figures represent the neighbors whose quiet strength forms the backbone of Fairpark. Anchored in Monsoon’s personal connection to the area, the sculpture serves as both tribute and mirror — reflecting the intergenerational spirit of the community. A plaque at its base reads “Fairpark | SLC,” grounding the work in place and pride. Deeply rooted in the Fairpark’s cultural fabric, Monsoon’s work was shaped by community input, inspired by shared values, and honors common people, especially youth and elders, whose resilience and wisdom often go unrecognized.

“As a Fairpark resident, I wanted to create something that makes my community proud and honors the many everyday unsung heroes who live here,” said Monsoon. “It’s a tribute to the grandparents, neighbors, teachers, and friends who make this neighborhood special. I placed the figures atop an inverted pyramid to represent the idea of ‘power to the people,’ and I hope everyone sees a bit of themselves in it.”

The site was identified for public art funding in December 2022 by the Salt Lake Art Design Board, in partnership with Salt Lake City Transportation, as part of a broader traffic calming effort along 500 North. Ahead of the 2023 artist call, the City’s Civic Engagement Team led a public survey, gathering input from over 240 residents and stakeholders that shaped the tone and direction of the future artwork.

The project is managed by the Salt Lake City Arts Council’s Public Art Program in collaboration with the City’s Transportation and Engineering Divisions, with support from Civic Engagement, Metal Arts Foundry, and the Salt Lake Art Design board, Fairpark residents and community stakeholders played a vital role throughout the process.