KING CITY — King City’s City Park and pool area gained a vibrant new addition this spring with the unveiling of the “Swimming Turtles” mosaic — an art installation that reflects not only creativity, but the deep sense of community that brought it to life.
Last spring, King City in Bloom president Allie Cullen approached artist Amy Burkman with the idea of designing and creating a stone mosaic. Burkman, a King City native, has built a reputation for using her art to inspire beauty and peace. Though she leads a busy life, she didn’t hesitate when revitalizing an untended, egg-shaped plot near the park’s pool.
Inspired by a stone mosaic at Sol Treasures, the vision quickly took shape. Burkman embraced the opportunity to give back to her hometown, and her enthusiasm was immediate. In collaboration with King City in Bloom, the concept of two swimming turtles emerged — symbolizing the joyful, playful energy of the families and children who gather at the park.
Turning that vision into reality required both funding and community support. Key contributions came from the Rita and Luis Echenique Charitable Foundation and a Neighborhood Grant from the Community Foundation for Monterey County, providing the financial backing needed to move forward.
From there, the project became a true grassroots effort. Community members stepped up in remarkable ways, donating materials, time and expertise. Families including the Rists, Brays, Roger and Brandi Borzini, and the family of Velma Monroe contributed stones — so many, in fact, that organizers joked about discovering a town full of “rock hounds.”
Preparing the site presented its own challenges. A concrete foundation was necessary to support the mosaic, made possible through the generosity of John and Annette Romans and John and Janet Buttgereit. Frank Lopez oversaw the work, ensuring a smooth and lasting base for the installation.
Work officially began in November, and the months that followed tested the team’s resilience. Weather delays, supply issues and health challenges all threatened progress. In late February, Burkman was forced to step back due to a recurring back injury. Even so, her commitment never faltered — she helped secure additional support by bringing in local tile man Gilbert Rosas, whose skills and dedication proved essential in completing the piece.
Support continued from many corners of the community. Anthony Storelli and the Public Works crew from the City of King provided ongoing assistance. Tim and Phoebe Cheney contributed by sourcing additional materials and labor, as well as Clarks Trucking donating additional rocks.
Even the youngest members of the community played a role. Remi Ibarra and Rose Cullen, both 9 years old, lent their creativity and energy as some of the project’s youngest installers, embodying the spirit of inclusion and shared pride that defined the effort.
In the end, the Swimming Turtles mosaic stands as more than just a work of art — it is a testament to what can happen when a community comes together with a shared vision. King City in Bloom, a group of dedicated volunteers committed to beautifying their town, once again demonstrated the power of collaboration, creativity and care.
The recent ribbon-cutting ceremony concluded with a special moment of recognition, as Mayor Mike LeBarre presented Burkman with an official acknowledgment from the City of King, honoring her contribution and the lasting impact of the project.
Now, as families gather at the park, the mosaic’s colorful turtles serve as a welcoming symbol — of play, of connection and of a community that takes pride in creating something beautiful together.
