Storm Damage Hits Iconic Soccer Collage on City Hall
A massive photo collage titled “Soka Kila Mahali,” meaning “Soccer Everywhere” in Swahili, adorns the side of Lawrence City Hall as part of the city’s Unmistakable Public Art Exhibition. The work, assembled by photographer Gary Mark Smith, showcases street soccer scenes from Goma, Congo, and forms part of a World Cup‑themed display that is slated to remain on view through August.
During Monday’s severe weather, one corner of the banner supporting the collage was ripped down, prompting city officials to assess the damage. Communications director Cori Wallace confirmed the incident and said the municipality intends to repair and reinstall the piece as quickly as possible.
A Citywide Celebration of Soccer‑Inspired Art
The exhibition features six distinct works scattered across downtown Lawrence. Sculptor Nathaniel Pierce’s “Gestura,” a steel and acrylic piece, stands at the intersection of Seventh and Massachusetts streets, while Randall Warren’s painted steel sculpture “Fútbol 50 v 50” greets visitors in front of the Lawrence Public Library. Alicia Kelly’s window graphics “Close up, Far Out” and “Six Sides of Connection” occupy 812 and 920 Massachusetts Street, and Javy Ortiz’s colored panels “FRGMNTS {WRLD CP 26}” stretch along Massachusetts between Eighth and Ninth Streets.
A sixth component will offer Lawrence‑themed soccer gear for sale at select downtown shops during the World Cup, adding a commercial dimension to the public art experience. The city will host an opening reception and guided walking tour on Friday, June 5, with a second tour scheduled for Friday, June 29; both begin at 5:30 p.m. at Ninth and Massachusetts streets.
Cori Wallace emphasized that the damaged collage will be restored and returned to its prominent position on City Hall, reaffirming the city’s commitment to public art as a cultural bridge. The incident underscores how even temporary installations can become cherished community landmarks.