In this uplifting presentation, Lily Yeh shares stories and images from her internationally celebrated community art projects. From the inner city of Philadelphia to the genocide-ravaged countryside of Rwanda, she depicts her experiences creating art that’s rooted in communities, rather than imposed on them. She uses the medium of mosaics as both art and metaphor to encourage people to use pieces of things that are broken to create beauty. The projects improve the physical environment, promote economic development, preserve indigenous art and culture, and empower damaged and impoverished communities to heal and revitalize themselves. She exudes the gentle grace of a Taoist priestess and the fearlessness of a warrior for peace.

This speech was given at the 2009 Bioneers Annual Conference.