Honoring A Legend & Bringing The Dragonfly Home
Edmund Williamson. A name that's recognized both in and outside of the Region 8 arts community. A renowned multimedia artist and friend to many, Edmund set out to bring art to the masses through his large, vibrant public sculptures and installations. In addition to his daring community sculptures and dynamic installations, the multifaceted artist was also known for his paintings, portraits, graphic design, and murals. When he passed away in 2009 he left behind a body of work as visually impressive as it is beloved by the community.
He is also credited with kicking off the now burgeoning cultural revival of downtown Monroe when he opened his gallery, Lost Bazaar, on N. 2nd St., a closed off alleyway that was officially renamed Art Alley in 2010.
The Dragonfly Project
One of Williamson’s most prolific sculptures was the “Dragonfly” (formally located in Forsythe Park) was retired from public view in early 2014. In cooperation with the City of Monroe, the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council has begun fundraising efforts to restore the piece and help it "fly back home" near its original landing place. We are excited to have this unique opportunity to introduce Edmund's work to a new generation, following in his footsteps to make art accessible and tangible.
In Edmund's own words: "I wanted to make something large that would last, something made from heavy-duty industrial materials. Serious materials for a piece of art that wouldn't be taking itself so seriously. This is public art, made to commemorate nothing other than life itself. Not that the dragonfly is unworthy of monument. They do, after all, eat mosquitoes and probably do deserve a place of honor here in Louisiana. But the purpose of this work is to be ornamental and embellish our community. And hopefully, it will introduce children to the possibilities of art and the improbabilities of nature."
-Edmund Nelson Williamson III, guest column, The News-Star, 1995
Donate Now!
Your gifts, both large and small, will help us restore and bring the Dragonfly home! Thank you in advance for your generous support that will allow us to give new life to an important piece of Region 8 public art history, while honoring an arts legend in the regional arts community.
