Kingman Park Community Art Project: Amazing

Revitalizing Kingman Park: A Community Art Project to Celebrate Our Rich History

Kingman Park, a beloved neighborhood with a storied past, is poised to receive a dynamic and beautiful public art project that will celebrate its cultural significance. Through a community-driven initiative, residents and local civic organizations are coming together to create a stunning art installation at the treasured triangle park where Oklahoma, 21st, and D Streets NE converge. This Kingman Park Community Art Project aims to not only beautify the neighborhood but also to honor the rich history and resilient spirit of its residents.

The Friends of Kingman Park (FOKP) civic association, a dedicated group of community members, has taken the lead in spearheading this exciting endeavor. At their April meeting, FOKP members unanimously voted to pursue a grant from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities to fund the creation of a sculptural art installation at the triangle park. Recognizing the potential of this Kingman Park Community Art Project to transform the neighborhood, FOKP is collaborating with Wayside Studios, a renowned art consultancy firm.

Wayside Studios, led by DC-based artist and Howard University professor Curry Hackett, brings a wealth of experience in crafting site-responsive public art. Hackett, along with collaborating artist Patrick McDonough, has a proven track record of working closely with neighborhood stakeholders to create meaningful and engaging art installations. Their expertise and commitment to community engagement make them the perfect partners for this Kingman Park Community Art Project.

The Kingman Park Community Art Project aligns perfectly with the historic designation of the Kingman Park community, which was granted in 2018. As outlined in the historic designation report, the significance of Kingman Park lies not solely in its buildings but in the remarkable people who called this neighborhood home. The designation celebrates the resilience of these individuals, their ability to overcome obstacles during the era of segregation, and the strong, tight-knit community they forged over generations.

While opinions may vary on the technical aspects of the historic designation, there is no denying that Kingman Park's history is something worthy of commemoration and respect. The Kingman Park Community Art Project provides a unique opportunity to visually represent and celebrate this rich heritage, creating a lasting tribute that will inspire and educate generations to come.

As the Kingman Park Community Art Project progresses, community engagement will be a top priority. The artists will work closely with residents, gathering feedback and incorporating ideas to ensure that the final installation truly reflects the spirit and values of the neighborhood. FOKP has already taken steps to involve the community, distributing flyers to Kingman Park neighbors and providing regular updates through community email communications.

If you are passionate about celebrating Kingman Park's history and contributing to the artistic vibrancy of our neighborhood, there are many ways to get involved in the Kingman Park Community Art Project. To stay informed about project updates, share your ideas, or have any questions, please reach out to FOKPcivic@gmail.com. By joining forces and supporting this initiative, we can create a lasting legacy that honors the past while looking towards a bright future for Kingman Park.