Page 14 - Florida Sentinel 3-25-16 Edition

Feature
African American History Captured At Perry C. Harvey, Sr. Park
With the skills of James Simon, Rufus Butler Seder, Michael Parker, and Joel Ran- dell, the history of Central Avenue has been captured and is on dis-
play. On
Friday, March 18th, the City of Tampa hosted a preview of the art- work at Perry Har- vey, Sr. Park, 900 East Scott Street. De- scribed
as being unique and contextual, four major artworks by four artists try to tell the full and complex story of the abundant contributions of the African American community and His- toric Central Avenue.
Gateway Figures by James Simon provide a welcoming entryway into the park. Simon’s 16-foot high sculp- tures of musicians with their dog help highlight the impor- tance of music to the history and culture of the Historic Cen- tral Avenue Business District. Nearby, jukebox dancers dance the twist, a dance with special meaning to Tampa.
Rufus Butler Seder offers a “History Walk in Lifetiles.” Eight optical glass Lifetile mu- rals depict the rich culture and history of the Central Avenue area. Each panel is themed and consists of a series of images that are layered upon each other, giving the appearance that they move or change as park visitors pass by.
Michael Parker provided Leaders Row, artwork that ad-
dresses the notion of what is a leader a motivator and an ac- tivist; and how can one impact a community. Supported by earth walls, this engaging art- work of mixed media takes one down Central Avenue and high- lights a few prominent individ- uals.
The crown of the park was done by Joel Randell, an
over-life size sculpture of Perry Harvey, Sr., located in the center of the park.
The history of the park started in 1865, when freed slaves settled northeast of downtown in what was known as “The Scrub.” Black life even- tually bloomed there, as resi- dents opened restaurants and stores along Central Avenue.
PERRY C. HARVEY, SR.
The statue of Perry C. Harvey, Sr.
History Walk By Rufus Butler Seder
Leaders Row by Michael Parker
Gateway Figures By James Simon
PAGE 2-B FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016