Wilson Building, Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, D.C.
8′ x 3′ x 3′
Bronze
2018
This heroic-sized bronze sculpture commemorates the life and work of Washington, D.C.’s beloved “Mayor for Life,” Marion S. Barry, Jr. The intention was to portray the mayor walking among and waving to his constituents, as he always had, highlighting his dedication to his community and Washington, D.C. After learning more about his life, legacy, and presence in D.C., his unique story and exceptional personality are expressed in this statue. Friendly, determined, and a skilled politician, he is portrayed as most remembered him, in his favorite suit and crocodile skin shoes. A quote from Barry’s autobiography is engraved in the plinth, explaining his efforts while holding D.C.’s most powerful office.
Commissioned by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, the statue is currently on permanent display outside of the John A. Wilson building on Pennsylvania Avenue. This is one of only three full-body, bronze statues of African Americans erected in the District of Columbia. Barry is also the first local-elected official to be honored with a statue.