NEW ORLEANS—
The Arts Council of New Orleans is having the dedication of the Art in Public Places piece Mandala, by local artist Rashida Ferdinand, at noon today at Caffin and Claiborne Avenues.The steel and ceramic sculpture is the latest mixed media installation from the Lower 9th Ward artist and funded through a grant by the Joan Mitchell Foundation.
"I wanted to make something beautiful – a gift – for my community," Ferdinand said. "What has touched me the most about the experience of creating Mandala is the response from people who live in the Lower 9th Ward and view the sculpture each day. I am moved by my community's appreciation for art, understanding of the work, and desire for more creative, beautiful art in our neighborhood."
Mandala was built as a symbol of hope and survival for the community. The sculpture dedication is part of a full-day celebration of the Sankofa Marketplace's one-year anniversary. The event will begin with Ferdinand's artist reception at noon with the dedication of Mandala at 12:15 p.m highlighted by a performance by St. Augustine High School Marching Band. Ferdinand will then join a car parade beginning at 12:45 p.m. cruising to the Sankofa Marketplace down the street. The day of celebration will continue with performances by the Kuumba Institute, Ambassadors for Christ Youth Gospel Group, ceremonies honoring living legends of the automotive world and a tribute to Fats Domino among other community events.
"It is appropriate that we celebrate the dedication of Mandala during an event so focused on the local community," Arts Council of New Orleans Interim President and CEO Mary Len Costa said. "Rashida has demonstrated great commitment to giving back to her neighborhood. Mandala was selected as one of the 19 Art in Public Places projects because the work symbolizes the strength and resilience of our community."
Ferdinand creates indoor installations and ceramic pieces which have been showcased throughout the United States. Ferdinand's work is made from steel, clay, ceramic and mirrors and seeks to transform spaces into living environments.
