DeKalb Seeks Artists For John Lewis Memorial In Decatur Square

DECATUR, GA — The John Lewis Commemorative Task Force is searching for artist applicants for the future John Lewis memorial in Decatur Square, which will replace the former Confederate obelisk monument that stood in the square for more than 100 years.

In a request for vendor qualifications posted Jan. 28, the task force is looking for an artist or multiple artists to create original artwork to commemorate Lewis' life and legacy. Lewis died in July 2020 after a long battle with cancer, and was one of the "Big Six" leaders of the 1960s civil rights movement.

"The previous Obelisk Monument honors the soldiers of the Confederacy, but fails to address the violence, cruelty and inhumanity of slavery and their acts of sedition against the United States of America, the primary cause for which the Confederacy fought the Civil War," the request reads.

DeKalb County commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to create a memorial site for the late Congressman at the Jan. 26 commissioners meeting. Any artists wanting to apply must have experience with projects of a similar scale and scope, such as permanent outdoor installations in public spaces, according to the qualifications request.

Applicants must provide an artist statement, past work samples and a resume to be considered. To view the full requirements and more information, visit the DeKalb County website.

"The artist shall create a statue, sculpture or other permanent artistic piece that reflects the
values and impact of Congressman Lewis’s life and work," the request reads. "The artwork is intended to be a permanent installation that will withstand an outdoor setting."

Here's a project timeline for those interested in applying:

• Feb. 17: Deadline for questions and clarifications on the application to be submitted. Submit questions to Sharice Feagins-Bailey at sfbailey@dekalbcountyga.gov.
• March 3 by 5 p.m.: Deadline for electronic submission of artists' statement, portfolio and resume. Email necessary documents to Sharice Feagins-Bailey at sfbailey@dekalbcountyga.gov.
• April 2021: Finalists notified, presentations and interviews of the finalists will commence.
• May 2021: Artist(s) selected and announced.
• May 2022: Anticipated completion and installation of final artwork.