In an urban setting, community gardens contribute to and encourage the preservation of open space; provide food; strengthen neighborhood bonds; and create recreational, educational, and therapeutic opportunities for the participants. The Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City temporarily transformed a vacant lot in an urban location near the TRAX Station into “The People’s Portable Garden.”

Utah-based artist Greg Ragland was commissioned for the project and responded to the spirit in which the garden was created by adding color, scale, shape, and levity with his sculptures. The large-scale work enhanced the garden, even in dormant seasons, and brought a sense of place and identity to this once vacant lot.

The artwork and garden have since been relocated as it was in a temporary location. Greg Ragland’s sculptures can be found at the 9 Line Community Garden continuing to add vibrancy in an urban location.