The West Atrium at the Phoenix Convention Center just got a new dose of art and history. Located at the Guest Experience desk, this work of art plays homage to the venue’s rich accomplishments, past and present.
The new installation “Come and See Us In” is made from layers of torn magazine pieces, vintage newspapers, and thoughtfully selected imagery from the Phoenix Convention Center’s archive room.
Artist Aileen Frick, owner of Torn Paper Creations, created “Come and See Us In” which made its debut at the Phoenix Convention Center earlier this month.
Frick said working on this piece for the Phoenix Convention Center was an incredible experience. The process took about a year and was created with news clippings and images from Phoenix Home and Garden, American Art Collector, Phoenix Magazine, Vintage Newpapers, Handmade Papers, as well as the Convention Center.
“My absolute favorite part of the process has been color magic,” Frick said. “The vibrant turquoise blues mixed with the oranges and warm tones really sets off the piece. I also love the energy of the people, and how they come to life and how they transform the painting into a lively representation of our city's energy.”
Frick hopes that those passing through the West Atrium take a moment to take a deeper look inside the artwork, which she says contains a multitude of layers.
“I hope you find a world of fascinating details that spark your curiosity and imagination,” Frick said. “Each piece of paper, fabric, and texture has been thoughtfully placed to create layers of meaning and surprise. Look closely to uncover hidden elements and symbols that might not be noticeable at first glance. Each element holds a piece of the puzzle, inviting you to explore deeper. My goal is to evoke emotions and memories that resonate with your personal experiences, creating a unique and personal journey for every viewer. Every time you view the collage, I hope you discover something new and find your own personal stories within its layers.”
Visit the work of art at the Phoenix Convention Center’s West Building Atrium at the Guest Experience desk on your next visit to the facility!