The central feature of the memorial is a dry streambed containing smooth river stones engraved with the names of victims of homicide. The streambed begins with a large black granite orb called "Tragic Density," symbolizing the enormous weight of sadness and grief. The streambed moves through the Garden culminating with a trickle of water into a pool out of which rises "Ibis Ascending," a skyward sculpture representing hope. The seat walls throughout the Garden are engraved with victims’ names, and offer a place for rest and reflection. The steel plaques on the edge of the Garden are also engraved with victims’ names, and add a modern element to the Garden.
1. 'Tragic Density' Granite Lens
The surface is the only part visible of the huge stone of sadness and grief buried in the hearts of those who have lost a loved one.
2. Dry Streambed
A stream should be full of water, the life-giver; but this stream is dry with only the victims' names to remind us of the lives that were taken.
3. River Stones
Stones bear the names, and dates of birth and death for each victim engraved 2004-2010. Each stone is different, as unique as the life of the person whose name it bears. Their numbers, carrying so many names, reflect such enormous loss. All the stones that do not have an engraving are unable to be engraved due to their porousness.
4. Seat Walls
A quiet resting place for tranquil contemplation and appreciation of nature. The walls bear the names, and dates of birth and death for each victim engraved 2011-2019.
5. Reflection Plaques
The reflection plaques add a subtle sculptural element and redefine the Garden’s edge. The plaques bear the names, and dates of birth and death for each victim engraved since 2020. All engraved names on the plaques are accessible to loved ones visiting.
6. Cross Walk
The point where our paths and those of the victims become one; where we and they meet; a union of pathways and footsteps.
7. Stone Walkways
Crunching beneath our feet, grounding us in the here and now.
8. Gathering Space
A communal space that allows us to look along the streambed, back at the sorrow, and forward to hope. A public place for educational programs and vigils.
9. Cascade - water begins
Water springing forth, reminding us that life is an ongoing process.
10. Pool
A pool of water reminding us of the possibilities that still exist.
11. 'Ibis Ascending'
A burst of life, springing from the pool, three ibises rise to the sky transcending pain, anger, and grief.
12. River Birch
Its bark changes, mahogany in its first season then salmon and gold as it matures, and back to deepest brown at its fragile edges. It grows best in groups, each tree drawing strength from the others, stems leaning and clacking against each other in the strongest winds.
13. Yew Trees
Limited in height, straight, evergreen, unchanging in all seasons, providing shelter from winter winds, evergreen, ever young.
14. Groundcover
An evergreen cloak, softening the surface and defining its contours.
15. Wall of Recognition
Recognition of major supporters of the Garden of Peace. Those who have made possible the commemoration of the hundreds of lives lost to homicide.