Downtown in Holland in Ottawa County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
"Uniting Sun" and "New Dawn Rising"
Artist: Cyril Lixenberg
— 1932 - 2015 —
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
1. "Uniting Sun" and "New Dawn Rising" Marker
These works of art were installed at Unity Bridge on October 30, 2014 to celebrate the Greater Holland-Zeeland area's rich diversity. The five vertical elements of "Uniting Sun" appear to vary in sizes, but in fact, all are of identical length, reflecting that we as individuals may appear different physically, yet in many respects, are the same with common values, needs and aspirations. The sculpture changes appearance as you look at it from different angles, suggesting that different points of view must be appreciated to understand the community as a whole. The round sun represents the light of truth and serves as a unifying symbol, reminding us that we must be united in building our community together. Twelve "sun discs” mounted on posts lining Unity Bridge are entitled, "New Dawn Rising.” The six paired opposites in different designs and colors reinforce the diversity theme. The color progression suggests the rising sun, reflecting our community's growing awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion to our capacity to innovate, adapt and prosper in an ever-changing world.
Erected by Concerned Citizens and Organizations.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music
this page online
Location. 42° 47.927′ N, 86° 6.673′ W. Marker is in Holland, Michigan, in Ottawa County. It is in Downtown. Marker is on North River Avenue south of Macatawa River, on the right when traveling south. Marker is in Van Bragt Park while the artwork is on both sides of the Unity Bridge and in the road median. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 60 N River Ave, Holland MI 49423, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. NEA Big Read Lakeshore (within shouting distance of this marker); Tower Clock (approx. 0.6 miles away); Warm Friend (approx. 0.6 miles away); Outpost (approx. 0.6 miles away); West Michigan Furniture Company Building (approx. 0.6 miles away); Kraker (approx. 0.7 miles away); First United Methodist Church (approx. 0.7 miles away); Knickerbocker Theater (approx. 0.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Holland.
Regarding "Uniting Sun" and "New Dawn Rising". Marker and sculpture have limited historical content but highlight the merging of tradition and changing demographics that have been embraced by the city and its people.
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
2. "Uniting Sun" and "New Dawn Rising" Marker
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
3. "Uniting Sun" Sculpture
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
4. "New Dawn Rising" Sculpture Pieces on Unity Bridge
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
5. Van Bragt Park Sign
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., August 12, 2022
6. Scale Windmill in Van Bragt Park
Credits. This page was last revised on August 5, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 21, 2022, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 234 times since then and 57 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on August 21, 2022, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
