Garden Spheres, a public art exhibit created by artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to debut at Antioch Park May 14

A new public art installation is coming to Antioch Park this spring! In partnership with Johnson County Developmental Supports, Johnson County Park and Recreation District is excited to unveil Garden Spheres, a vibrant collection of 10 sculptural works created by JCDS Papercrete artists.

Each piece is approximately the size of a beach ball and weighs about 130 pounds. These striking, handcrafted sculptures will be on public display at Antioch Park from May 14-Nov. 30, 2025, offering visitors a unique blend of art, nature and community expression.

A free opening reception and artist talk-back will be held on Wednesday, May 14, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Antioch Park Rose Garden. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists and hear more about their creative process and the inspiration behind their work.

After the exhibition, the spheres will be available for purchase at the annual JCDS Holiday Art Sale in December - making it possible to take home a meaningful piece of local art.

Papercrete Works is a program of Johnson County Developmental Supports that creates community integrated employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. People served can earn an hourly wage while learning new job skills and working toward achieving their goals in employment.

Papercrete is a mixture of cement, water, and recycled paper. The crew of artists and JCDS staff work together to pour the mixture into molds to create unique products. Proceeds from the sales go back into the program. In addition to the Garden Spheres, Papercrete Works also offers a variety of other home décor and seasonal items, including flowerpots, garden benches, steppingstones and signs.

All items are available for purchase through the Papercrete Works online store at bit.ly/Papercrete-Works-Store.