Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) has unveiled a new public art installation on campus, adding a vibrant symbol of creativity and collaboration to the heart of the university. The Community Heart Project, now prominently displayed on the LSUA Plaza, reflects a student-driven design process that moved from classroom concept to a meticulously hand-painted campus landmark.
The installation is part of a broader beautification initiative led by the Alexandria/Pineville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which envisions heart sculptures placed throughout the region as dynamic expressions of art, culture, and civic pride. By participating in this initiative, LSUA joins a regional effort to transform public spaces into creative landmarks while contributing to a lasting legacy of artistic expression in central Louisiana.
At LSUA, the project began not as a finished design, but as an academic challenge. In a Basic Design course taught by Associate Professor of Fine Arts WangLing Chou, M.F.A., students were tasked with brainstorming, discussing, and presenting concepts for the heart installation. The assignment provided hands-on experience in the real-world creative process, requiring students to think strategically, collaborate effectively, and present their ideas within the parameters of a public art commission.
Following the class presentations, LSUA Marketing Coordinator Chase Dyess, MBA, synthesized the students’ collective ideas into a cohesive visual concept. Dyess developed detailed illustrations and provided comprehensive guides to help translate the digital design into a physical work of art. With the blueprint finalized, students then undertook the careful, time-intensive process of painting the design directly onto the heart structure.
What began as sketches and presentations in a classroom evolved into hours of focused craftsmanship. Students worked collaboratively, applying precision and patience to transform the blank sculpture into a vibrant, polished installation. Among those contributing to the final stages of the project, student Tristan S. devoted significant time and meticulous care to the detailed hand-painting that brought the design to completion.
The finished heart now stands on the LSUA Plaza directly across from the newly opened Martin Family Student Success Center, positioned at the university’s official front entrance and the starting point of every student’s journey. The installation offers visitors an immediate reflection of LSUA’s creative, collaborative, and student-centered culture.
The university extends its appreciation to Chou and Dyess for guiding the project from concept to completion. LSUA is grateful for the creativity and dedication of the participating design students: Adrianne A., Ralyn B., Ryan B., Savannah C., Hailey F., Emma G., Ian I., John S., Katherine S., Trayce S., Shiloh U., and Tristan S.
Written by Mira Alvarado
Photo credit – Mira Alvarado