The parks board on Aug. 20 approved the Michigan City Public Art Committee’s recommendation to name the new sculpture site across Highway 12 from Pullman Park "You Are Beautiful Park," to host a Matthew Hoffman text-based sculpture.

Staff said the Michigan City Public Art Committee (MAC) selected the name because the installation will display Matthew Hoffman’s You Are Beautiful artwork. The superintendent said the park will include an interpretive sign explaining the international You Are Beautiful project and a QR code linking to the artist’s website. The sign text provided in the meeting packet describes the initiative as "a global public art initiative that began in 2002 ... With over 10,000,000 stickers and a 100 permanent works worldwide, each piece invites passers by to pause, feel seen, and share that kindness."

Staff said the artist will allow use of his name and receive a small stipend—described as around $200—covered by a donation to MAC; the park and sculpture will be part of the city's municipal art collection and city staff recommended approval. Public commenters, including Tommy Klobick (1316 Ohio Street) and Scott Mellon (200 Kenwood Place), expressed support for the project and asked about timing; staff said construction is slated for late fall and the letters are being sandblasted and powder-coated now, with a likely ribbon-cutting when weather permits.

A motion to approve the MAC request to name the new sculpture park carried by voice vote. Staff indicated there is no cost to the parks department for the naming and that the interpretive signage and minor stipend will be covered by donations.