A donor wall unveiled at Canadian Mennonite University's Marpeck Commons isn't your average recognition plaque. The creation is a collaboration between artists Ray Dirks and Rick Finney and was unveiled at the institution's 2015 Fall Festival.

Ray Dirks is responsible for painting the oak tree that's laser etched into the glass piece. The tree is based on a Chortitza Oak in South Russia, the location of the first of many Mennonite settlements that went up across Russia. Rick Finney adds, to him, the oak tree represents longevity and strength.

Finney goes on to say the piece is based on the grid patterned fields, rivers and lakes that make up the Prairies.

He adds the patina layers are probably his favourite aspect of the piece.

Finney notes working on the lakes and rivers was also a highlight; using a copper rod, smashing it down and then putting a blue patina on it. "To me that made it jump out. Even though I wasn't going to do it in the beginning, by the time I got to that part I felt it needed something and that's what came to me."

As for why they opted to do such a grand piece to recognize the donors of Marpeck Commons, Dirks explained that it is an impressive building so it just made sense for an inspiring piece of art to go in it.

"I really appreciate that the administration was inspired to put something there that was a piece of art as opposed to just a grouping of names, I think it'll stand the test of time much better."

Finney adds from the very beginning he knew this wall had to be an art piece, something where people saw a different element each time they walked past it. He says donors should be proud to have their names on the piece and notes he and Dirks wanted them to feel like they were getting their money's worth.

Marpeck Commons is a wonderful addition to the campus of CMU in Winnipeg, and its grand scale and design are befitting of a grand donor recognition wall.