If Women Designed Public Spaces

Armloads of flowers smeared trails of color through the gray of the elegant hallways of the Minnesota state capitol building in Minneapolis. My friends and I sought a break from the pummelling rain outdoors. The momentary uplift of our spirits shattered when we learned that the blooms were being delivered in preparation for the lying in state of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their beloved dog Gilbert. Another American tragedy of violence provoking prayers and concern and little else. Geez. The news that a golden retriever honor guard would look over Gilbert’s urn wrenched our hearts.

But we weren’t there for the lying in state. We were touring the capitol building, a magnificent show of granite and artwork poorly represented by our guide who deflected questions with a curt wave of the hand. Okay. Perhaps the atmosphere of grief distracted her. Or her previous group of 10-year-olds.

The governors waiting room displays murals, murals of war. Following three weeks of travel across the nation, I was sick of war, conquering, decimation of peoples. What if women designed these buildings, I thought? What would I include?

A tour of Costa Rica came to mind. In 1949, Costa Rica dismantled their military and now relies on three branches to maintain order and peace. Money is better spent on education and the arts. It seems to be working. I recall the artwork at the National Theater, accessible for all citizens with a theater presenting quality but affordable concerts and plays. The artwork extolls the beauty and efforts of the people. Yes, I would honor that and encourage creativity and unity and peace.

Can we stop honoring military power as a virtue? Can we not recognize war as Man’s limited ability to live in peace, as a necessary evil in a world of selfish psychopathic leaders? Any depictions of conflict should show the devastation followed by portraits of humility and grief. Let’s put faces on the slain. Let’s put faces on those waiting at home.

God, I am sick of history that moves from war to war.