Written by Deborah Levine, Editor

Given last year's conflicts over the commissioned statue of Martin Luther King, Jr., the ADR is not surprised to be running a follow-up article.  The fierce debate this year is whether the depiction of Martin Luther King, Hr. should be 28 feet tall with arms crossed in a confrontational manner.  Some say that he was confrontational and the pose is appropriate.  Others say that the pose is reminiscent of dictators who commission intimidating statues and whose citizens have been glad to depose.

The original controversy surrounding the statue demonstrated how the arts are central not only to culture and community,  but also to national identity.  The battle was over the selection of a Chinese sculptor to create the monument to Martin Luther King Jr. on the National Mall. The project prompted public debate about the relationship of art, community, international relations, the use of public land and ownership of historical icons.  

The commissioning of a Chinese artist, Lei Yixin, proved divisive in a project that was intended to be unifying. One camp put forth the philosophy that King promoted peace and understanding among all people and the artist should not be required to be Black. The artistic character is not confined to a particular group nor should it be.

The other camp highlighted King’s efforts to champion African Americans in the US and a Black artist should be given the opportunity to create the monument. In addition, critics pointed to China’s record in human rights advocacy as dismal. Lei Yixin was designated as a Master Sculptor by the Chinese government. Some say that given the Chinese government’s human rights record, the choice of Lei Yixin made an international statement that was too accommodating. Even without the issue of human rights, many maintain that the artist should have been American, regardless of racial background. The outsourcing of art to China continutes to ruffle feathers.

It is noteworthy that ten of the twelve people on the committee that chose the Chinese sculptor are Black. Critics asked why  Black artists played a supporting role in enabling a Chinese artist to interface with American sensibilities. Today, critics are asking for changes to be made to the design of what will be erected on public land.  The ADR predicted that the debate over the relationship of public land and private funding would increase in intensity as the project heads towards completion in 2009. The complexity of issues and the passions they represent are a frequent element in the discussion of public art. The power of public art is the power to define, inspire and enhance us. Such power should rightly be the subject of public scrutiny, discussion and advocacy.  Apparently,  the debate and scrutiny continues and a new design will be submitted in June.