Seeds of Peace
The Rotary Club of San Jose is joining local philanthropist Diane Brandenburg to bring the Mario Chiodo-designed Seeds of Peace Monument to Arena Green West, adjacent to the SAP Center. The San Jose City Council unanimously approved the artwork on Oct. 7.
Rotary Club of San Jose President Matt Braker said the proposal was approved overwhelmingly by club members.
In a release, Rotary Club of San Jose Foundation President Audrey Fox said, “Rotary International’s No. 1 focus area is promoting peace, so Mrs. Brandenburg couldn’t have brought us a better project.”
Brandenburg approached the Rotary Club of San Jose to form a community partnership around the monument. The club anticipates forming an ongoing Rotary Peace Committee to produce curriculum, program performances and cultivate a space for reflection.
Brandenburg is covering the $2 million fee for the sculptor’s design and the monument’s fabrication. The Rotary Club of San Jose Foundation will be raising an additional $1.5 million to create a civic arrival and gathering space; add lighting, sound and visibility; build a landscaped setting that invites the public to connect; support installation, placement and safety infrastructure; and introduce donor recognition and design features.
Installation is anticipated for late fall 2026.
Donations can be sent to RCSJ Foundation (EIN 94-6112270), 1690 Senter Road, San Jose, CA 95112.
Neighborhood Notes
ROSE GARDEN>>“Maps to Heaven,” an exhibit by Jemal Diamond, is running through Dec. 5 at Visual Philosophy, 1065 The Alameda.
“In this series of acrylic drawings and paintings, my usual improvisational drawing style intertwines with intentional, plotted paths,” Diamond wrote in a statement. “Each piece is full of mystery, joy and storytelling.”