Monuments chart the enduring task in finding their relevance to the present through referential emblems of often one sided and incomplete histories.
The statues themselves are dismantled; leaving a stone plinth for public activity. The primitive granite once supporting historical individuals is now carved up into an assortment of benches connecting two greater cultural neighborhoods -- the Museum District and VCU.
Unsure of whether this monument is ancient or new, pedestrians are drawn towards its canopy. From different angles the monolith keeps an interior to itself yet remaining open always. Those that find themselves inside find five stone figures and one skylight. Each shape transcends the previous monument bases, positioning themselves to frame a sunken chamber mostly for listening but also lectures, markets, and other happenings. The roof is accessed through a spiral stair in one of the stones. Without realizing it until gazing back at the city from this new outlook, a community sees itself for the first time in a long time.
2018 Competition Finalist - Monument Ave. General Devotion General Demotion.
In collaboration with James Murray.
