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
The Dragonfly Documentary
We are excited to keep you up to date about the restoration work on the Dragonfly. If you didn’t know, that work officially began in early summer. Thanks to the careful hands of the restoration team lead by Region 8 artist Brooke Foy, this iconic community landmark is on its way back to its original brilliance.
The story doesn’t end with the restoration itself, though. We want to capture the entire process in a mini-documentary – preserving the history of the piece, the artistry of its restoration, and the impact it has on our community.
To bring this vision to life, we’re offering special sponsorship opportunities. Be recognized as someone who sees and believes in the vision. This is a chance to not only support the restoration of the Dragonfly, but to be a part of the story that ensures its legacy lives on.
Dragonfly Legacy - $2500
Presented by [Your name/Organization} prominently displayed in the opening and closing credits of the documentary
Logo featured on all promotional materials (press releases, social media, website, and event signage)
Opportunity to include a brief filmed thank-you message in the documentary
6 VIP invitations to any preview screening or celebration event
Recognition in Arts Council newsletter and other publications
Dragonfly Guardian - $1000
Logo in closing credits of the documentary
Logo featured on social media and website project pages
4 VIP invitation to preview screening or celebration event
Recognition in Arts Council newsletter and other publications
Dragonfly Friend - $500
Name listed in closing credits of the documentary
Recognition on social media thank-you posts
2 VIP invitations to preview screening or celebration event
Make A Donation Today!
We are still actively taking donations to cover the restoration and ongoing care for the Dragonfly, as well as Edmund's other public art works in the Ouachita Parish area. Consider joining us in these efforts by making a donation below.
