GO Bond – East Mesa Public Recreation Complex Public Art Project
In October 2024, Las Cruces Public Art (LCPA) commissioned an artist to create a site-specific outdoor art piece to be designed and installed at the new East Mesa Public Recreation Complex (EMPRC).
In March 2026, the winning concept became a reality when artist James Moore completed the installation of Dance of Life, a three-piece artwork depicting stylized metal figures on Corten steel pedestals.
“For this project, I envisioned sculptures that embody the vitality and activity of the recreation complex, possibly incorporating elements that create engaging light and shadow play that respond to environmental conditions. The rich history of the site, particularly its prehistoric past with fossils of giant jellyfish and horseshoe crabs, offers a fascinating narrative. I am excited to explore ways to integrate these historical elements into the artwork, perhaps through abstract representations or textural details that reflect the ancient landscape,” said James.
The stylized figures are made of aluminum in various poses of action – balancing, stretching and flexing – placed on steel bases with word cutouts and fossil imprints. Lights shine through the cutouts at night. They stand in what will eventually be expanded to include more public artwork to create a sculpture garden in the park.
Dance of Life delivers the vision James proposed all those years ago in a stunning art piece that provides an engaging photo op experience for park visitors of all ages.
EMPRC is a new public recreation complex located off Sonoma Springs Ave. on the eastside of Las Cruces. The recreation complex recently opened its 10-acre park in June 2026 that features a playground, basketball courts, a skatepark and a sculpture garden.
