COLORED TROOPS
(FIRST STUDY FOR VICKSBURG MONUMENT)
bronze
2002
11" X 13" X 12"
edition 40
At the beginning, the study for this monument
lacked exact focus. The challenge was to conceive and execute
a figurative statue that would honor the sacrifices of all
those of African descent who participated in the Vicksburg
campaign. I longed for something that would not be a divisive
symbol, rather one that stimulated all mankind to reflect
on our common humanity. That would be the strongest element
of such a tribute and one that could reach the diverse population
drawn to stop along Grant Avenue and ponder its meaning and
significance in their own lives. Is that not, after all, what
the best art does?
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