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
ARTISTS APPLY NOW!
The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council is seeking proposals from qualified artists to restore the Edmund Williamson Dragonfly Sculpture. The goal of this project is to return the sculpture to its original appearance, protect the sculpture surfaces to prevent future corrosion, simplify annual maintenance requirements, and relocate and install the sculpture.
Please click the button below to download the complete project guidelines. Please note that all required documents must be uploaded to the digital form below.
Minimum Requirements:
1. The lead artist(s)/restorer(s) must possess and be able to provide proof of the requisite skills set to manage this restoration.
2. Proposer must provide at least three (3) professional references where work of similar scope and scale has been completed.
3. The proposer must have completed the conservation, restoration, and/or implementation of at least three (3) outdoor sculptures.
4. The proposer must provide or arrange for on-site care, supplies, lifts, scaffolding, and/or any other necessary equipment or supplies as needed to complete the project.
The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council reserves the right to reject any and all bids or to waive any requirements in the Proposal process, if deemed in the Arts Council’s best interest.
DEADLINE: Proposals must be received at the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council office, via the Arts Council’s website, on or before Noon, Monday, March 24, 2025, at which time they will be privately reviewed.
*all questions may be directed to abigail@nelaarts.org
