City of Jackson to Unveil New Sculpture Friday

The plaque installed at the base of the new sculpture being unveiled Friday.  Photo by Jeff Steers, JTV.

(July 28, 2023 10:13 AM ET) Jackson’s main pedestrian trail is getting its first piece of public art. An unveiling event for the new sculpture along the MLK Equality Trail is planned for Friday, July 28 at noon. 

The piece titled “A Community of Shapes” is a work from artists Chris Turner and Doug Jones. Earlier this year, the City Council reviewed sculpture proposals for the MLK Drive roundabout. Though the council selected a different piece for the roundabout, it was decided the work from Turner and Jones would be a good fit for the MLK Equality Trail. 

“A Community of Shapes” is placed along the trail where it crosses south MLK Drive on the west side of the road near Damon Street. The event will feature words from officials and artists, refreshments, and a close look at the sculpture.

Over the past five years, the City of Jackson has worked with the Jackson Public Arts Commission (JPAC) to install sculptures in two roundabouts and one gateway. 

“This installation on the trail and another one coming to the roundabout bolsters JPAC’s goal of bringing a diverse range of art to Jackson’s neighborhoods,” said Kelli Hoover, staff liaison to JPAC. “‘A Community of Shapes’ is also located within the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority so this will be the start of positive changes on the way.”