BROWARD COUNTY, FL - An inspiring, site-specific artwork at the new Nancy J. Cotterman Center (NJCC), the County's only Certified Sexual Assault Program and Accredited Children's Advocacy Center and Child Protection Team, has been installed. In partnership with the County's Crisis Intervention and Support Division of the Human Services Department, the County's Public Art and Design Program commissioned Transformation. Located in the central courtyard of the NJCC facility in Oakland Park, the brightly colored aluminum, ceramic and mosaic sculpture by internationally recognized artists Carlos A. Alves and JC Carroll conveys a message of joy, transformation and renewal.

Known for their work with ceramic, mosaic, metal, and glass, the artists' concept was to create an artwork that instills a visual sense of place for those who use this facility at a time of crisis, as well as for the professionals who are there daily. The sculpture is anchored in a teardrop-shaped concrete planter covered in blue ceramic and mosaic tiles interspersed with colorful handmade butterfly and flower tiles that serves as a communal seating area. Growing from the planter's center are three large aluminum flowers vividly rendered in green, yellow and orange, with a bright blue metal, ceramic and glass butterfly hovering at the top of one of the flower stems. 

The artists noted, "Butterflies have often been a symbol of beauty and transformation; this artwork provides a positive look into a brighter future where one can be reborn into a new powerful being and take flight in a brighter world." 

Phillip Dunlap, Director of the Broward County Cultural Division, sees the sculpture as a comforting symbol of happiness for the population served at NJCC and the center's staff. "The vibrant colors and joyfulness provide an uplifting and unifying symbol for viewers, turning the courtyard into a gathering place," he said.

The Human Services Department requested an artwork at this location that would reflect hope, resilience and strength and embrace the diversity of Broward County. "We have already seen the impact this artwork has had on our clients, bringing a sense of comfort when coming in after experiencing a traumatic event," said Carol Cook, Director of Human Services. 

More than 109 artists submitted portfolios hoping to win this public art commission. Alves and Carroll were selected by a five-member volunteer panel of experts and community members. The County's public art collection includes more than 315 paintings, sculptures, murals and site-specific installations. For more information about the Public Art & Design Program, one of the oldest of its kind in the country, visit Broward County Public Art & Design.