At Piece by Piece, we believe in the enduring strength found in transformation, turning what is broken into a source of dignity and hope. This philosophy inspires our latest mosaic mural for the future Metro D Line Station at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center. Between 2022 and 2024, led by Artistic Director Dawn Mendelson and commissioned by Metro Art, our team collaborated side-by-side with Veterans in a series of community workshops to create the design for this mural. Together, we listened deeply, welcomed every story, and created alongside those we seek to honor, ensuring the mural genuinely reflects Veterans’ lived experiences and aspirations. Piece by Piece has since been awarded the contract to fabricate the mosaic mural for Metro, with Piece by Piece staff and artisans participating in our Social Enterprise program.
This new work is also a tribute to the National Veterans Mural by artist and U.S. Navy veteran Peter Stewart, which has stood as a landmark of remembrance since 1995. While the majority of Stewart’s original 23,000-square-foot mural will remain carefully preserved during construction of the new Metro D Line Station, a section will be respectfully retired. Our mosaic carries forward that indelible legacy, reimagining its spirit at the heart of the new mural just steps from the original.
Artist and veteran Sidney with artist Andrea working on the flag
A meaningful milestone arrived in early August, as Sidney, both a Veteran and accomplished mosaic artist, laid the first piece in the mural. This moment embodied the connection between the creative process and the lived experiences of the Veterans who inspired it, highlighting the deep sense of ownership and pride at the heart of our work.
The Piece by Piece studio has since become a vibrant creative hub, with artists, instructors, and leaders working in harmony to bring the mural to life. The design spans an impressive 40 inches by 7 feet 9 inches and is being fabricated in segments, each constructed for beauty, durability, and a lasting impact. Thousands of glass and ceramic pieces are being thoughtfully arranged, preparing each section for installation.
Artist Jose working on a solider's face
This project creates meaningful engagement for our entire Piece by Piece community. It is a privilege for our artists and participants to honor Veterans through art, contributing to a lasting work that will greet and inspire Metro riders and passersby for generations.
Commissioned by Metro Art, the mural champions the importance of public art and honors the resilience of Los Angeles’ Veteran community. This new chapter continues Peter Stewart’s original vision, reflects the strength and perseverance of those who have served, and beautifully illustrates how, when gathered with compassion, even broken pieces can create a lasting legacy of hope and wholeness. Stay tuned for updates and the finished mural later this fall.
