Welcome to the July issue of CODAmagazine, where we share the best design + art projects from all over the world. This magazine is published once a month by CODAworx. We’re an online community for artists, design professionals, and industry resources to showcase their work, collaborate with one another, and find the creative resources they need for future projects.

You are reading this article because you are part of the CODAworx community! The topic of community, and especially how to create, care, and grow a community, is near and dear to my heart. The CODAworx story proves that talented and interesting people (like you!) are out there, looking for the joy and comfort only communities can bring.

Communities are defined not only by the people who are part of them, but in the places and spaces where they exist. Ideas, stories, cultures, and forms of entertainment are always part of a setting. The flowers in the park, the sculpture near the laundromat, the mural on the building – all have their roles and impact those who interact with them on a daily basis. Art in communities serves many functions, frequently bringing residents together and telling stories about the area. Consider GENTLE BREEZE in Idaho, a public artwork from the imagination of Matthew Mazzota. Symbolizing the natural splendor and vibrance of Boise, the project includes swings visitors can relax on.

Voting on the CODAwards People’s Choice Awards ended in June, but there are still opportunities to engage with the CODAworx community this year! In October, CODAsummit: The Intersection of Art, Technology and Place is scheduled to take place in Denver, Colorado. Each year at these conferences, exciting new friendships form, incredible business connections are made, and lessons are learned from some of the most influential and skilled leaders in the world. This year might be the best CODAsummit ever: Just take a look at this agenda!

I hope you spend time in July creating community and recognizing the value of the communities in your life.