
Rise Above::Stand Strong
2024
Installation Location: Travis County District Attorney’s Office in Austin, Texas, USA
Dianne Sonnenberg
Austin, TX, USA
5 x 3 feet
stained glass, fused glass, recycled tiles, millefiori, ball chain, beads, 24K gold smalti, found objects
In Collaboration with community members, Austin Mosaic Guild members
This mosaic honors survivors of sexual assault. It was created as a community “remembrance” artwork, focused on healing and justice. The project emerged after 14 survivors filed and won a lawsuit, asserting that their cases had been mishandled and justice denied. As part of the settlement, they asked that an artwork be created to ensure their voices would be remembered, heard, and honored.
A community workshop sponsored by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office brought together survivors, families, advocates, attorneys, community leaders, and members of the Austin Mosaic Guild. Together, they created 82 individual round glass mosaics, each a unique artistic expression. These circles now form the border of the final piece, connected by interwoven tiles that symbolize unity and shared strength.
This mosaic is more than just a work of art—it’s a communal act of resilience and strength. Participants found the creative process therapeutic, empowering, and deeply meaningful. During the event, attendees wrote private messages of support directly onto the substrate beneath the mosaic. Though no longer visible, these words remain embedded in the piece, offering an unseen layer of voice and intention.
The central figure in the mosaic is a powerful woman radiating strength and confidence, reflecting the intent of the stakeholders. The stylized cloak is designed using textile patterns from many cultures, symbolizing diversity and shared experience. Her red dress is the symbol that honors Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Below her, allies stand together in solidarity; behind her, ancestors offer support. Radiating from her heart center, rays of light represent hope, healing, and empowerment.
This permanent installation at the Travis County District Attorney’s Office in Austin, Texas serves as a visual reminder of the resilience of survivors and the ongoing need for justice, awareness, and healing.