From New York City to the Arctic Circle
Allison Eden Studios · Field Notes
Installing a monumental glass mosaic at America’s northernmost hospital.
The story
Utqiaġvik, Alaska
Some projects are memorable because of their scale. Others because of their beauty. And then there are the rare commissions that become legendary because of the journey required to bring them to life.
For Allison Eden, the installation of a monumental stained glass mosaic mural at Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital in Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow), Alaska was all of those things—and more.
We often say that our handcrafted mosaics can be found from the northernmost city in the United States to the southernmost point in Key West, Florida, and everywhere in between, and this project proves we mean that quite literally.
01 / ARCTIC LIGHT
Bringing Color to Months of Arctic Darkness
Located more than 320 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Utqiaġvik experiences one of the most extreme climates on Earth. During the winter months, the community endures weeks of continuous darkness, while summer brings the famous midnight sun.
When hospital administrators began planning artwork for the new facility, they weren’t simply looking for decoration—they were searching for an artist whose work could genuinely improve the emotional experience of patients, families, visitors, and healthcare professionals.
They selected Allison Eden because of her national reputation for creating vibrant stained glass mosaics filled with bold color, movement, and optimism.
The hospital specifically wanted artwork that would counterbalance the long Arctic winters with an environment that felt energetic, hopeful, and uplifting throughout the year.
Rather than relying on muted palettes often found in healthcare settings, Allison designed sweeping ribbons of brilliant stained glass that appear to flow across the walls like colorful currents of light. The movement recalls both the rolling landscape of Alaska and the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis, creating an immersive work of architectural art that celebrates life, color, and resilience.
Color became more than decoration. It became a source of energy, hope, and light.
02 / MADE IN BROOKLYN
A Mosaic Built One Piece at a Time
Every section of the mural was handcrafted in New York City using thousands of individually cut stained glass pieces.
Each tile was carefully placed to create smooth gradations of color and flowing movement before being fabricated into precision-engineered interlocking sections for transportation to one of the most remote construction sites in North America.
The logistics alone were extraordinary.
Designing artwork that would travel thousands of miles into the Arctic requires meticulous planning, engineering, and craftsmanship to ensure every piece arrives ready for installation and fits together seamlessly.
When adventure becomes part of the project
As memorable as the artwork itself was, the installation quickly became the kind of story few artists ever experience.
During the installation phase, longtime installer Bob Eder suffered an unfortunate encounter with a hungry bear while working in Alaska. Thankfully, he recovered, but the unexpected incident required Allison Eden to travel north to help keep the project moving forward.
It became one of those unforgettable moments that perfectly illustrates the unpredictable adventures that sometimes accompany large-scale public art projects.
Despite the extraordinary circumstances, the installation was completed successfully, thanks in large part to the outstanding craftsmanship and professionalism of Floyd Godwin and the Western Tile team, whose attention to detail ensured the monumental mural looked exactly as envisioned.
Standing inside the completed hospital, surrounded by flowing fields of luminous glass, it became clear that every challenge had been worthwhile.
Art That Helps People Heal
Healthcare architecture has evolved dramatically over the past several decades, with growing recognition that thoughtfully designed environments can positively influence the patient experience.
Color, light, texture, and beauty all contribute to creating spaces that reduce stress and promote well-being.
For a hospital serving one of the most remote communities in America, these qualities become even more meaningful.
The finished mural introduces warmth and movement into the interior architecture, transforming everyday corridors into uplifting spaces where art becomes part of the healing environment.
It is a reminder that handcrafted artwork can do more than beautify a building—it can provide comfort, inspire hope, and create lasting emotional connections.
A Happy Ending
Fortunately, Bob Eder made a full recovery after his unforgettable encounter with Alaska’s wildlife.
Not long afterward, everyone at Allison Eden Studios had the pleasure of cheering him on as he crossed the finish line of a marathon in New York City’s Central Park—a fitting reminder that resilience, determination, and a good sense of humor often become part of the story behind great works of art.
Looking back, the Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital project represents everything Allison Eden Studios strives to achieve: creating one-of-a-kind architectural mosaics that transform spaces, brighten lives, and leave lasting impressions—whether they’re installed in Manhattan, Miami, or the northernmost city in America.
Every project has a story. Some simply happen to include the Arctic, a bear, and a marathon.
Made in Brooklyn · Installed Worldwide
Create a Mosaic That Belongs to Your Space
Allison Eden Studios collaborates with architects, designers, healthcare organizations, and hospitality professionals to create one-of-a-kind glass mosaic installations.
