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Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas A symbol of unity through nature’s flow

Installed in 2025 at the heart of Avondale’s “The BLVD” district, “Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas” stands as a bold new landmark for the city. This freestanding sculpture, crafted from powder-coated mild steel, was created by Vito Di Bari and reaches 15 feet in height. Its three twisting spires are a physical manifestation of the three rivers—Agua Fria, Salt, and Gila—that define the region’s geography and spirit. With a dynamic form that suggests constant movement and flow, the artwork is more than a structural feat; it is a tribute to the life-giving waters that have brought people together in this valley for generations.
A detailed view of the three twisting spires of "Confluence," showcasing how the interlaced steel forms represent the meeting of the Agua Fria, Salt, and Gila rivers.
A detailed view of the three twisting spires of “Confluence,” showcasing how the interlaced steel forms represent the meeting of the Agua Fria, Salt, and Gila rivers.
Beyond its symbolic representation of nature’s flow, the sculpture’s foundation serves as a direct dialogue with the people of Avondale. Engraved upon the base are the words “ACCELERATING,” “ACHIEVING,” and “ASPIRING”, serving as a rhythmic pulse that mirrors the city’s forward momentum. These values ground the artwork, reminding every passerby that while the rivers represent the region’s history, the community’s drive defines its future.
  • Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas
    A view of the sculpture’s base, where the community’s core values—Accelerating, Achieving, and Aspiring—are permanently etched into the landscape
  • Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas
    A view of the sculpture’s base, where the community’s core values—Accelerating, Achieving, and Aspiring—are permanently etched into the landscape
  • Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas
    A view of the sculpture’s base, where the community’s core values—Accelerating, Achieving, and Aspiring—are permanently etched into the landscape
Avondale is a community deeply connected to its environment, and “Confluence” channels these natural values into its design. The sculpture is strategically positioned to serve as a focal point for the city’s burgeoning urban center, offering a place for reflection and connection. The three distinct spires rise in harmony, mirroring how the three local rivers converge to create a singular, vibrant ecosystem. This convergence serves as a metaphor for the city itself—a place where diverse paths meet to form a strong, unified community.
The design is engineered to evoke the fluidity of water and the strength of the community. As viewers move around the piece, the twisting spires appear to shift and dance, mimicking the organic flow of a river current. The scale of the work creates an immersive experience for pedestrians at The BLVD, encouraging them to pause and appreciate the shared outdoor spaces that define Avondale life.
  • Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas
    A detail of the sculpture’s base featuring intricate metal silhouettes that celebrate Avondale’s community life and heritage—from a lone rider and desert flora to local musicians and outdoor explorers.
  • Confluence – Tres Rios, Tres Almas
    A detail of the sculpture’s base featuring intricate metal silhouettes that celebrate Avondale’s community life and heritage—from a lone rider and desert flora to local musicians and outdoor explorers.
Every aspect of “Confluence” is designed for durability and visual impact, from its weather-resistant powder-coated finish to its prominent placement in the public realm. More than a public art installation, it is a transformative landmark—an invitation for residents and visitors alike to take pride in the natural heritage of their city. By honoring the meeting of the three rivers, the sculpture celebrates Avondale’s past, present, and future as a place of gathering and growth.
The vibrant colors finish of the sculpture stands in striking contrast against the Arizona sky, highlighting the sculpture's role as a beacon of unity at The BLVD.
The vibrant colors finish of the sculpture stands in striking contrast against the Arizona sky, highlighting the sculpture’s role as a beacon of unity at The BLVD.