During Black History Month, the City of Atlanta installed four new benches featuring life-size bronze sculptures of local Civil Rights leaders Dr. Rita Samuels, Dorothy Bolden, Rev. Hosea Williams and W.A. Scott (pictured below). The benches will reside along Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive. in front of Mozley Park.
“Designated spaces and art installations such as these provide a permanent space to reflect on the efforts of those who came before us, and what we can do to further the ongoing work of ensuring equality and dignity for all,” said Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. “The MLK Corridor Project is a perfect example of the City, its residents and partners working together to improve and preserve the great legacy of our communities.”
Created by sculptor David Alan Clark, the artworks are the second of seven public art installations commissioned for the City’s MLK Innovation Corridor Project and celebrate Atlanta’s legacy and global influence in the Civil Rights movement.
“These sculptures celebrate four amazing local leaders and their unique stories,” said Camille Russell Love, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. “The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs is excited to bring these world-class artworks to the City and memorialize the legacy of the Civil Rights movement.”
The MLK Corridor Project, managed by the City of Atlanta’s Department of Transportation (ATLDOT), spans approximately 7.2 miles from Northside Drive to Fulton Industrial Boulevard. This project addresses vehicular, ADA, and pedestrian safety concerns while providing additional pedestrian and bicycle access by implementing new multi-use trails.
An event recognizing the corridor improvements and all seven public art additions will be scheduled for a later date.
