Installation of the new sculpture at the center of the S. MLK Drive roundabout is complete! "The Tower of Us/We Rise" by Maxwell Emcays was unveiled this afternoon at a community event.
This illuminated 30-foot sculpture depicts individuals standing on each other's shoulders forming a tower, representing how community support can help with overcoming adversity. The piece was selected by the City Council earlier this year after a public engagement effort with south side residents from the Public Arts Commission. Another sculpture was selected by the City Council and installed on the MLK Equality Trail. "A Community of Shapes” by artists Chris Turner and Doug Jones can be found at the pedestrian trail crossing on S. MLK Drive. It reflects Jackson’s diverse population coming together.
Emcays, a Chicago-based artist, spoke at the unveiling along with City officials. The sculpture will be lit up at night, with the lights turning starting Friday night.
This roundabout and sculpture is a gateway to the MLK Drive corridor and is the start of more exciting things on the way for the south side neighborhood!