In the spring of 2004, we began Planting Circle/Growth Ring in the art department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas. A site-specific, outdoor ritual/sculpture in two parts, it was intended to provide a focus for hope and faith in personal growth for members of what was outwardly at least, a fairly cynical community.

In the first stage, Planting Circle, people were invited to think of something that they wanted to grow within themselves or their lives. They would write this down on a piece of paper, burn it, and mix the ashes with earth, pigment and seeds. They would then assemble these into a seed pouch, which they would attach to the circle. Throughout the week, as more pouches were attached, they could see they were not alone in their community in seeking positive change.

When people arrived the next Monday morning, the circle had been removed, and the Growth Ring had been planted in its place. Staked around the space flew a string of flags sewn together from the individual pouches, now stained subtle colors from the pigmented earth and water, testifying to the hope that was planted there.

Over the next couple of weeks, participants practiced patience and faith that their seeds would sprout in the harsh Las Vegas spring. Some expressed fear that nothing could grow in the desert climate. As the seedlings emerged, participants began to water the plants and tend the soil on their own initiative, and many expressed their joy at the connection between watching the plants grow and tending to their own internal garden.

That spring, the plants thrived in a climate of nurturing and care, and some four o'clock plants still come up every year as a reminder of what we planted together.