‘Doves in Flight’ Tribute Wall

Unity Village is making history by reimagining and remodeling its 50-year-old Activities Center into a state-of-the-art event center to serve the region. Contributors who become part of this legacy will be recognized in a breathtaking display of glass etchings called “Doves in Flight.” Learn how you can be part of this historic project.

Imagine walking into the lobby of the new R.D. Goppert Event Center and being greeted by a glistening installation of 206 individual works of art, each a masterpiece by renowned Kansas City artist Kathy Barnard. The doves in these hand-cut, etched glass tiles convey love, devotion, and caring.

The Concept

“Doves in Flight” is inspired by the symbolism of birds representing divine ideas and the historical significance of doves in Unity. This installation promises to be a timeless testament to unity, spirituality, and evolution.

Artist Kathy Barnard

Renowned for her award-winning, custom-designed art glass, Barnard is an internationally recognized artist known for her ability to infuse charm and playfulness into the natural world she depicts. Her keen attention to design and construction ensures enduring beauty that will be cherished for generations.

“Every detail is important to me, from the time and care spent considering a design to the hours it takes to properly create it,” Barnard says on her website. “As the light strikes a piece of glass, it magnifies and produces an illuminating effect. I want my pieces to have an inner life and create a sense of wonder in the viewer.”

Artist Kathy Barnard working on a piece — Artist Kathy Barnard

Collaboration with Kansas City Metalworks

Working with Zeke Henry at Kansas City Metalworks, Barnard will bring her vision to life through crafted panels that will span the lobby, creating a mesmerizing visual experience for all who enter. The glass panels will hang in a metal frame, and the walls are being reinforced to hold the weight of the installation.

Personalized Works of Art

You can be part of this artistic endeavor and further the work of Unity at the same time. Choose from the five dove designs shown and decide which size of etched glass tiles you want displayed on the wall in the new R.D. Goppert Event Center to memorialize a loved one, honor a special person in your life, or symbolize your personal connection to Unity.

Tile Options:

The first dove design with both wings vertical

The second dove design with wings spread out

The third dove design with both wings vertical and slightly spread

The fourth dove design with both wings spread out viewing the dove from the back

The fifth dove design with both wings pointed down as it flies

Example of a completed 12" tile
with inscription:

The first dove design with sample text "Unity San Francisco - Spiritual Community For The 21st Century"

Donation:

8" Dedication Bird—$2,500
10" Dedication Bird—$5,000
12" Dedication Bird—$7,500

Character Limits:

8" Bird Tile—Will hold one line of text at 35 characters
10" Bird Tile—Will hold one line of text at 35 characters
12" Bird Tile—Will hold two lines of text at 35 characters each

To learn more about the hand-cut, etched glass tiles or the 100 Years and Beyond Capital Campaign, reach out to the Office of Philanthropy at [email protected] or call 816-251-3505.