In a heartfelt tribute to Karim Abou Najm, the City of Davis and the local community came together yesterday to celebrate the unveiling of a touching new art installation, "Fiat Lux." Initially set for Sycamore Park, the event's location was swiftly changed to the Willett Elementary Multi-purpose Room due to an uncooperative weather forecast, according to the City of Davis' official announcement.
Demonstrating the power of collective generosity, "Fiat Lux" came to fruition through contributions from various sources, but it was notably the family and friends of the late Karim Abou Najm who led the charge. To further literally shed light on the piece, the University of California, Davis, and the City of Davis Municipal Arts Fund stepped in to provide additional funding. This array of support underscores a communal spirit in celebrating Najm's legacy—a testament to the impact he had on those around him.
At precisely 4 p.m., community members and attendees who braved the dreariness were ushered into the warmth of the multi-purpose room before they walked together to the park where the art piece stands as a new beacon. "Fiat Lux," translating from Latin to "let there be light," signifies more than just illumination, as mentioned on the City of Davis website.
