A captivating Harmony Garden project has transformed the Storm Lake Public Library/Witter Gallery grounds into a park-like setting punctuated by the joyful ring of music and the laughter of children.
The City of Storm Lake won a T-Mobile Hometown Grant to obtain seven colorful outdoor musical instruments, drawn from cultures around the world, such as samba drums, calypso chimes and a cavatina.
An outdoor performance deck, game tables, accessibility-friendly benches, a device charging station, and sculptural art completes the scene, replacing the worn concrete that once surrounded the facility. Thanks to a Trees Forever grant, children helped to plant magnolia trees that will grow to provide welcome shade.
The synergy is striking – literature, visual art and now music in a facility that represents the cultural heart of Storm Lake. Harmony Garden also served as the gathering spot that the downtown has lacked. While children are drawn to the music features, studies also show that music has a positive impact on brain function and mental well being, especially for older adults.
As one of Iowa’s most culturally-diverse communities, music is a common language. Harmony Garden development serves as a pleasant atmosphere for all ages – a place to play, a place to rest and recharge, a place to join in a community creative class or just enjoy a favorite book in the sunshine.