NEWS
UNDER OUR WINGS
Southlake Unveils a New Symbol of Unity and Protection
Soaring above Southlake, “Under Our Wings” by Vito Di Bari captures the city’s spirit of unity and honors the everyday heroes who protect and serve. The design invites both distant admiration and close-up exploration. Elliptical rings radiate from the shield, forming a protective embrace that metaphorically shelters Southlake’s citizens.
Southlake, Texas, has a new landmark that captures the heart and spirit of its community: the “Under Our Wings” sculpture, now standing proudly at the Department of Public Safety West Facility. This striking artwork, designed by renowned artist Vito Di Bari, is more than just a visual centerpiece, it’s a powerful tribute to the city’s police and fire professionals and a testament to the unity, integrity, and protection they provide every day.
Embracing the spirit of protection and unity, “Under Our Wings” stands tall as Southlake’s new symbol of community pride.
A Tribute in Steel and Color
Crafted from robust mild steel and finished with industrial enamel paint, “Under Our Wings” stretches an impressive 16 feet wide and 8 feet tall. Its unfurled wings, painted in Southlake’s signature green and gold with accents of blue and red, symbolize the unwavering dedication of the city’s first responders. At the heart of the sculpture sits a shield, emblazoned with Southlake’s iconic “S” and surrounded by elliptical rings, a visual metaphor for the ripple effect of safety and care that radiates throughout the community.
Pictured from left to right: Ashleigh Casey (Chief of Police) and artist Vito Di Bari.
Designed for the Community, by the Community
Strategically placed along Southlake Boulevard, the sculpture offers two unique perspectives: golden feathers lead as you enter the city, representing the courage of the fire department, while green feathers take prominence as you leave, symbolizing the steadfast protection of the police force. This duality reflects the harmony and complementary roles of Southlake’s police and fire departments, working together to shield and serve the city.
The base of the sculpture features the city’s rallying call, “Protect Southlake,” cut from sturdy aluminum, a tangible reminder of the Department of Public Safety’s mission and a call to action for all who pass by.
Pictured from left to right: Artist Vito Di Bari and Interim Fire Chief Jeremy Wilson.
A Lifelong Legacy
Every detail of “Under Our Wings” has been engineered for longevity, from weather-resistant materials to its thoughtful placement and low maintenance requirements. The sculpture invites both distant admiration and up-close exploration, encouraging residents and visitors alike to pause, reflect, and take pride in the guardians who stand watch over Southlake.
In the Picture: Artist Vito Di Bari and the Park Division employees.
A Community United
The unveiling ceremony brought together city leaders and first responders, including Mayor Shawn McCaskill, Chief of Police Ashleigh Casey, artist Vito Di Bari, Interim Fire Chief Jeremy Wilson, and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Talley. Their presence underscored the collective pride and gratitude felt throughout Southlake.
“Under Our Wings is a breathtaking tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of our Fire and Police Departments. This sculpture, created by the incredibly talented artist Vito Di Bari, is more than just a piece of art, it’s a symbol of the protection, courage, world-class service, and unwavering commitment that our first responders demonstrate every single day.” — Mayor Shawn McCaskill.
“Under Our Wings is a breathtaking tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of our Fire and Police Departments. This sculpture, created by the incredibly talented artist Vito Di Bari, is more than just a piece of art, it’s a symbol of the protection, courage, world-class service, and unwavering commitment that our first responders demonstrate every single day.” — Mayor Shawn McCaskill.
Pictured from left to right: Shawn McCaskill (Mayor of Southlake) and artist Vito Di Bari.
A Lasting Invitation
“Under Our Wings” is more than a public art installation, it’s a transformative experience and a new chapter in Southlake’s story. As residents and visitors pass by, they are reminded of the city’s resilience, unity, and the everyday heroes who keep Southlake safe. The sculpture stands as a beacon of pride, inviting all to celebrate the spirit of community and the guardians who keep Southlake forever under their wings.
Artist Vito Di Bari stands before his inspiring “Under Our Wings” sculpture, a powerful new symbol of unity and protection for Southlake.