About The Project
Connecting The World
Seeds of Peace takes root in San José, California, born from the belief that even the smallest beginnings can blossom into something powerful and enduring. What begins here is more than an initiative, it is a wave of hope, compassion, and community, nurtured by those who believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow.
At the heart of this vision is the long-standing friendship and creative partnership between philanthropist Diane Brandenburg and sculptor Mario Chiodo, whose shared commitment to peace and humanity first brought the Seeds of Peace Monument to life. Their collaboration reflects a rare harmony between artistic expression and civic purpose—an enduring reminder that when vision and generosity come together, art can change not only landscapes, but hearts.
As these seeds grow, they carry with them stories of connection, resilience, and shared humanity. From neighborhoods in San José to cities across the globe, Seeds of Peace is meant to travel, to inspire, and to remind us that peace is not bound by borders.
Everywhere it takes hold, Seeds of Peace becomes a living example for the next generation: a symbol that unity is possible, that kindness is stronger than division, and that the actions of today can light the way for the future. Whether in your hometown or across oceans, may you see Seeds of Peace not just as an idea, but as a beacon—one ready to shine in your community as well.
A Message From Mario
The Peace Monument envisions a monumental figure standing behind six children and a penguin, who are lifting the Earth together, a powerful symbol of unity, hope, and global harmony.
Intertwining symbols of peace, protection, diversity, and shared responsibility, the Peace Monument tells a story of our shared human journey. The central figure represents the strength and potential of humanity to shape a better future.
More than a work of art, it is a call to action, one that invites reflection, inspires connection, and reminds us that the work of peace belongs to all of us.
About
Mario Chiodo
As destiny would have it, Mario Chiodo was sculpting mud he dug from the yard as a small boy. Born to Italian parents, family visits to Italy only fueled his desire. He has vivid memories of Michaelangelo’s Pieta and The Four Slaves emerging from stone, works that impressed upon him dynamic gesture and the depth of emotion possible in sculpture. Chiodo was fortunate to be pulled from traditional middle school and sent to a hybrid school for the arts where he flourished.
Discovered as a young man sculpting likenesses, Chiodo has been a professional sculptor involved in massive creative projects, private or public commissions, and epic monuments over the last 35 years.
Mario Chiodo has been the designer and lead sculptor of his own diverse creative art business for over 40 years. Beginning in the 1980’s, Chiodo entered the art world through the Halloween industry, quickly becoming a leading designer of seasonal wearables and décor, revolutionizing the industry with his enigmatic design. Chiodo was granted licensing rights to create popular collectibles for major film studios such as Lucas Films, Warner Brothers, Disney, Paramount Pictures, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Universal Studios. This success resulted in Chiodo becoming a public company in the 1990’s expanding his position in the consumer product industry.
Simultaneously, themed architecture was exploding in the 90’s and Chiodo received requests for site specific sculpture all over the country. Mario worked closely with the Harrah’s Corporation and was responsible for many of the spectacular themed projects in Las Vegas and New Orleans such as the massive History of Jazz exhibit. Chiodo’s dynamic artworks have been commissioned for everything from themed restaurants, clubs, casinos, hotels, museum exhibits, a children’s theme park, and even Google headquarters. Chiodo was honored to be chosen to sculpt the founder of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, General Hubert Harmon.
Chiodo has created his own series of Fine Art editions which explore the theatre of humanity including the mythology that lives in a cultural mindset, such as the evocative Four Seasons inspired by Napa Valley. A master storyteller, his artwork transcends mere visual facts and reveals the inner soul, thoughts and emotion of his subjects.
Discover The Locations
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Your Location
A Seeds of Peace monument can be created to specifically represent your community.
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Global Site
Mario’s vision is to create and install Peace Monuments in cities around the world, each one a universal symbol of hope rising from local collaboration.
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Universities
Universities are a primary location to underscore the importance of connectiveness, inclusivity, diversity and collaboration.
Get In Touch
For inquiries, collaborations, or commissions, feel free to reach out to us. We love connecting with fellow Ambassadors for Peace.