About the art
The design of “Garden of Goodness” was greatly inspired by the history of Sumner Library, it’s Gary N. Sudduth African American History and Culture Collection, and the Near North neighborhood. The design was refined by community engagement with Sumner’s staff and patrons. During the library’s grand reopening celebration in Fall 2024, attendees voted on two different designs and offered feedback.
The culmination of input is reflected in the final design that conveys how Sumner Library offers the endless seeds of possibility and the support to blossom. Hands open to sprout fluttering pages and a lively vine that spells out “Sumner.” The colors of the lettered books intentionally reflect the rich diversity of the Near North neighborhood. To honor the continuum of learning, the mosaic concludes with an infinity spiral and bursting purple bloom – a color that symbolizes royalty and imagination.
Funded by the Hennepin County Library One Percent for Art Program