Chippewa Valley Times

A new public mosaic installation celebrating the aquatic life of the Chippewa River has been unveiled. The six-panel stained-glass mosaic was designed by Jyl Kelley, a professor of art, and fabricated by art students Theron Christiansen, Erin Phelps, and Anmarie “Rie” Roos.

The mosaic depicts a subaquatic scene featuring various fish and plants, including some endangered species. "This design brings attention to endangered species in our river and also gives viewers a perspective of what it might be like to look under the surface of the water," Kelley said.

Input about local endangered aquatic species depicted in the mosaic was provided by the state Department of Natural Resources. Dr. Doug Faulkner, a professor of geography, contributed information to inform the design of the riverbed represented in the scene.

The project received sponsorship from several entities: Eau Claire Transit Authority, the city of Eau Claire, UW-Eau Claire Student Office of Sustainability, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, and the department of art & design. Jacoby Matott, UW-Eau Claire wood and metals shop supervisor, provided instrumental assistance during installation.

A reception celebrating the mosaic installation will take place at the bus stop structure from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 7.

"Our goal was to beautify the bus stop space and also offer bus stop riders and general public an opportunity to connect with their natural surroundings. The river theme is relevant to its Water Street location," Kelley explained.

For Phelps and Roos, who carried one of the six panels for installation, this project marked a significant milestone as they graduated in 2024 and completed it as Blugold alumni.

"Working with stained glass material has been an excellent challenge that has offered many new learning opportunities for our group since glass is not a medium that is traditionally offered in our department," Kelley noted. The artists had to consider how light passing through the glass would affect viewers both inside and outside of the bus stop.

Roos highlighted her experience working with stained glass: "There was a lot to learn in cutting the glass... Getting specific shaped pieces for the fish didn't always turn out like we wanted." She emphasized that public art installations can make places more interesting and enjoyable.

Christiansen found artistic growth through this project gratifying but also saw value in understanding how public projects are commissioned and proposed. "Seeing how people commission and propose public art ideas... are all skills that I believe are easier to learn while doing it," he said. Christiansen is currently working on two murals commissioned by Eau Claire area businesses.