User:Candice.lefranc/sandbox

Queen Califia’s Magical Circle is known as the only American garden sculpture and the last major international project created by Niki de Saint Phalle before she passed away. Saint Phalle showcased a few of her signature designs such as the voluptuous female figures, hybrid creatures and mythical symbols that are covered in vibrant mosaic. The color choices helped bring her work to life; her color choices and art work served as a form of therapy in order for her to cope with the trauma she has dealt with her entire life. Inspiration for this work came from the Califia legend as well as California’s myths and history. Escondido, California was chosen as the location for the garden for its semi-rural setting in order to perfectly set the tone. The wired fence is not a part of the project, it is there to keep all visitors safe from the broken mosaic pieces so that they may enjoy all aspects of the garden safely. The staff from The Coast News Group has recognized Queen Califia’s Magical Circle as one of the San Diego region’s cultural landmarks.