Raccoon River Park Playground Sensory Wall

Created by Hilde DeBruyne; Cumming, IA

One of the most popular and well-known parks in West Des Moines is Raccoon River Park, located at 2500 Grand Avenue. This expansive park was established in the late 1990s and has since become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The park boasts a wide range of amenities, including a 232-acre lake, a beach, shelters, a boathouse, an archery facility, a dog park, a nature lodge, a multi-use trail, a fishing pier, and complexes for softball and soccer. In addition, Raccoon River Park is also home to two public artworks, Even Water and Aqua Strata, which were commissioned by the Public Arts Advisory Commission to educate park-goers about water quality practices and their impact on the environment. The park is heavily frequented by thousands of visitors each year, which led to the decision to replace the aging playground equipment in 2022. In its place, a new, inclusive playground was constructed in 2023 to provide a welcoming and accessible space for children and families of all abilities to learn, play, and grow together.

The highlight of this new playground is a commissioned sensory wall that incorporates public art, creating a unique and inviting focal point for visitors of all ages and abilities. The West Des Moines Public Arts Advisory Commission and Raccoon River Park Playground Public Art Work Group were dedicated to ensuring that the sensory wall would be a playful and inclusive addition to the park, providing a calming respite from other activities and complementing the natural surroundings. Thanks to a total budget of $75,000 and a generous contribution of $29,000 from BRAVO Greater Des Moines, this project was able to come to fruition and add even more charm and appeal to Raccoon River Park.

"Metaphor of the River: A river is never the same and changes every day. It can be deep or shallow, stormy or quiet and still. No two days are alike. There are so many secrets hidden underneath the surface, so many hidden depths just like us neurodiverse people. No two people are wired the same; there are so many elements we do not know or understand. A river is part of a system that existed long before we were born and will continue to exist long after we are gone. It is ever-changing, flowing back and forth between oceans, lakes, rivers, and clouds. It flows through every tree, fish, and insect.

Interconnectedness: The water ripples, some are big, others are small, but they all disappear and are part of the river, the lake, the ocean. A river is a home, a habitat for us, and a water source. It is a habitat for mammals, insects, fish, plants, amphibians, and reptiles. Rivers make up only a tiny fraction of all the freshwater on earth. But they have so many powers: They can take us on voyages of discovery, create a place of recreation such as fishing, boating, walking, camping. They create a form of contemplation and relaxation, or they can frighten us through flooding, storms, or drought. A river connects people and places. Rivers have brought people together through trading, settlement, and rituals. It is also a place of recreation for fishing, boating, walking, and camping. It is a place for transportation and travel. It is a place of reflection. Rivers reflect their surroundings and tell us about ourselves (fish abundance, diversity of birds, swim advisories, oil spills, garbage in rivers)."

DeBruyne was inspired by the children's book "What is a River?" by Monika Vaicenviciene.

The creation of this public art sensory wall was a collaborative effort that prioritized the involvement of individuals with autism. The artist, Hilde DeBruyne, recognized the value and importance of including the voices and perspectives of those who would benefit most from this artwork. To truly capture the experience of individuals with autism, DeBruyne worked closely with members of Kunzler Studios 'The Least of These Foundation' during the design and production process. This not only allowed for their unique insights and ideas to be incorporated into the final product but also provided them with a platform to express themselves and feel a sense of ownership over the artwork. By involving individuals with autism in the creation of the blue tiles that adorn the wall, DeBruyne ensured that the piece would be a true representation of their experiences and perspectives. This collaborative approach not only enhances the authenticity and impact of the artwork but also promotes a sense of inclusivity and empowerment for those involved. Through this project, DeBruyne has not only created a stunning piece of public art but has also fostered a sense of community and understanding for individuals with autism. This sensory wall stands as a shining example of the power of collaboration and inclusion in the world of art and serves as a meaningful and beautiful tribute to the unique experiences of those with autism. The images below were taken during the tile making process.