OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Papillion means butterfly in French, so to continue honoring their namesake, Papillion is placing butterfly artistic benches all across the city in honor of the 150th anniversary.
If you are driving through Papillion, beautiful pieces of artwork will start to be a common sighting.
"It has taken us more than a year to get this project completed," said Laura Schwartz, executive director of the Papillion Community Foundation. "It wasn't always smooth sailing, we just felt this is what the community needed right now."
A total of 33 artistic benches will be spread across Papillion.
Every bench has its own theme: Everything from benches paying tribute to the military, our courageous firefighters to the mighty monarch.
"I think they are colorful, they are a huge gift to Halleck Park," said community member Donna Van Riper. "My favorite is the sunflower bench, but they are all fascinating, they all draw you in."
Eighty artists submitted ideas, both professionals and non professionals. Ages ranged as well, kids aged 12 years old, all the way up to the age of 60.
And with such a huge variety, everyone has a favorite or two.
"I really love the one that is up by the Sump Memorial Library and this one has such a great message," Schwartz said.
Each bench is sponsored by a company or individual.
This community art project is just one of the many 150th anniversary celebrations Papillion has planned.
COVID-19 has pushed back many of the activities,but none have been canceled.
