Back of the West Boise YMCA heart sculpture, painted as a bright blue sky with white clouds above a range of purple mountains. Raised lettering across the center reads "SO GLAD YOU'RE HERE." The heart sits on a matching blue painted pedestal.

Community

By Mark Houston

This heart beautifully captures the spirit of the YMCA as a place where people of all ages come together to grow, connect, and thrive. Through a series of lifelike, expressive scenes, the artist brings to life moments of movement, mentorship, and meaningful connection—from strength training and sports to quiet conversations and playful time in the water. The inclusion of both youth and adults reflects the powerful idea that we need one another at every stage of life.

West Boise YMCA | 5959 North Discovery Way, Boise, Idaho 83713

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Artist Mark Houston smiling looking at his artwork

Meet the Heart-ist

I’ve been drawing since I can remember. Art is fun only when it turns out, otherwise, it’s horribly tedious– and even then, it has shown me the true wonder of God and the creation He spoke into existence. It is amazing and is a true testimony of the limitless wonder of God– how an artist can spend countless hours to try to copy just a moment of the appearance of one subject in God’s infinite universe, and if successful, still doesn’t compare to the subject that lives and moves and if examined with magnification, only gets more detailed, whereas the art, when magnified, fades into smudges and paint blobs!

A large, cheerful group poses with arms raised outside the West Boise YMCA, holding the blue "SO GLAD YOU'RE HERE" heart sculpture. "30 Years Strong" banners hang nearby on a sunny day.

Meet Our Heart Partner

The Treasure Valley Family YMCA is a cause-driven, nonprofit organization that works to strengthen the foundation of our community by developing successful youth, engaging people in healthy living, and instilling a commitment to social responsibility.

The YMCA helps members build meaningful connections, find support, and create lasting friendships.

From fitness programs to youth activities and volunteer opportunities, the Y is more than a gym—it’s a place where people come together to grow stronger, both individually and as a community.