JCMO Community Park Sculpture Series

Community Park reopened on July 3, 2020, after receiving extraordinary park improvements. The park, which has been largely ignored for several decades, is now Jefferson City’s destination park. It is adjacent to Lincoln University (LU), a Historically Black College and University founded by African American Civil War veterans, and only one mile from the Missouri State Capitol. Three major park features include a unique play experience with a tall climbing tower and zip-lines, Jefferson City’s first splash pad, and a picnic shelter for events and gatherings. In 2021, the first piece of a multi-piece sculpture series for the Historic Foot District was installed at Community Park along the greenway, a multi-use 15-miles trail network connecting neighborhoods, schools and parks. This permanent sculpture series will provide public art that successfully illustrates the stories of African Americans striving and thriving in the Historic Foot District and surrounding community during times of world wars and segregation. This sculpture project seeks to celebrate the history of Jefferson City's Historic Foot District through public art. Artists are invited to create original sculptural works inspired by the experiences, resilience, and contributions of African Americans who lived and worked in the area, with a focus on the theme of public safety and community commitment between the 1900s and 1960s. Selected works will serve as storytelling markers that honor the district's rich history and cultural legacy. Artists are encouraged to explore the theme of Public Safety and Community Commitment by honoring the individuals who helped protect, serve, and strengthen the Historic Foot District and surrounding community. This may include police officers, firefighters, first responders, military service members, educators, faith leaders, volunteers, neighborhood advocates, and other community members whose dedication contributed to the safety, well-being, and resilience of the area. Artists are encouraged to interpret this theme broadly while recognizing the important role these individuals played in supporting and uplifting the community.