Sculpture representation and controversy

While visiting sculptures on this class trip I noted that the one thing consistent was controversy. The first introduction to this was the Henry Ward Beecher sculpture by John Quincy Adams Ward.

The eight foot sculpture of Beecher stands on top of a pedestal, initially made out of bronze, Beecher is depicted in a combative and determined pose. I've comprehended that this pose was inspired by his prosumed pose during his mock auctions or his preaches. The enslaved woman at his bottom left is a symbol for Beecher's advocacy for women and stance as an abolitionist. Question 4 made me think we should try to emphasize this women and not Beecher. The children (one girl and one boy) was an ode to his work with orphans, it's said orphaned children would sneak into church to hear Beecher preach. This interpretation is what is called into question and the cause for controversy. Beecher can be interpreted to seem egotistical and ignoring the subjects below him, holding just himself up. His own reputation is a controversy by a charge of adultery. We've learned representation is important, (recall the various portrayals through paintings of George Washington or the paintings and photography that enslaved people created to advocate for their freedom and empowerment and the differing impact in history each had). The fourth stop we made on this trip sheds more light on the importance of how Beecher is represented. Henry Ward Beecher by Gutzon Borglum depicts a perhaps kinder and more welcoming Henry. Beecher has a hand extended out and a black woman, a enslaved person he freed, holding a baby holds a hand up to him. Location is also important because this sculpture is located in a school across from Plymouth Church.

Henry Ward Beecher. Located at the north end of Columbus Park.

Unity by Hank Willis | Henry Ward Beecher by Gutzon Borglum

Unity by Hank Willis is another example of the controversy surrounding historical sculptures. Thomas writes "Many of the images and objects we see outside are advertisements [...] rather than asking us to reflect on something". When I saw the sculpture of unity I understood what Willis wrote, the hand is ambiguous and can be interpreted a variety of ways. It lends to the idea that we should stop glorifying historical figures and focus on unity instead. This class trip not only made me realize that we often walk by statues and sculpture without a second thought but that many are controversial and it's important the art we display be a true representation of our history.