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DCLA Monuments: Beyond Sims

New York, NY

The Beyond Sims project is a pivotal endeavor that aims to replace the J. Marion
Sims sculpture with a new artwork titled “Victory Beyond Sims.” This evocative
sculpture will be prominently situated on the eastern granite perimeter wall of
Central Park at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 103rd Street in Manhattan, a
location that ensures high visibility and engagement with the public.

“Victory Beyond Sims,” created by a visionary artist, depicts a winged figure
holding a flame in her right hand and a staff crowned by the Arc of Asclepius,
encircled by a wreath symbolizing the unending circle of life. The sculpture’s
intricate design and profound symbolism aim to provoke critical thinking and
reflection on historical injustices and the resilience of African women. The
garment of the figure is not merely decorative but tells an epic story through its
narrative elements. A cutaway in the shape of the African continent from her
heart symbolizes the Motherland’s ruinous loss of more than 12-million people
over hundreds of years, while the silhouettes of twelve resilient women on her
garment represent the nameless who endured and persevered.

The back of the sculpture features a schematic of a slave ship, reminding
viewers of the inhumane conditions endured by enslaved women. Braille
inscriptions on the sculpture’s sides read, “My Soul looks back and wonders
how I got over!” and “My Soul is Anchored,” paying homage to the spirituals
sung by enslaved African women, which spoke to their faith and resilience. The
garment’s hem is emblazoned with “Betsy, Lucy, Anarcha, and countless millions
of African women were imbruted, enslaved, and stripped of their human
rights…” serving as a reminder of their suffering and the enduring spirit of the
generations that followed.

“Victory Beyond Sims” is designed to stand as a beacon of change and a
powerful reminder of the Hippocratic Oath’s guiding principle: “First, do no
harm.” By fostering a deeper understanding of history and promoting critical
dialogue, the sculpture’s presence aims to catalyze positive social change,
making it a significant and meaningful addition to New York City’s cultural and
historical landscape.

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Client

New York City Economic Development
Corporation

Contract Value

$1.5-2.5M

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