SAN ANTONIO, TX (January 12, 2022) – The City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture recently debuted “Spheres of Reflection,” a new public art project in the city’s east side at Martin Luther King Park. The 13-foot-sculpture, which rests on a 4-foot-tall foundation, was created by local San Antonio Artist Kaldric Dow and celebrates African American culture.

“Spheres of Reflection” depicts an ambiguous face topped by a cylindrical tower of dark, reflective spheres symbolic of hair. The spheres feature words that are common themes found in Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s work including “dream, sincerity, bold, desire, brave, unity, gratitude, accountability, devotion and change.”

"To me, this sculpture represents the essence of what African American culture is,” said Dow. “It was important to me to use my portrait artistic style to create a piece that people can identify with and see themselves represented. The spheres creation a reflection in honor of Dr. King’s messages of self-reflection, so that viewers are encouraged to look within to consider what the words incorporated in the sculpture mean to them.”

“While this sculpture is a memorialization of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this artwork goes beyond that. It is a catalyst to start a dialogue on proper representation of Black, Indigenous and people of color and social justice,” states District 2 Councilperson Jalen McKee-Rodriguez. “It is a perfect fit for San Antonio’s east side as we are a diverse, creative, and resilient neighborhood. This is a lasting beautification project we can all be proud of because every day it will enhance the experience of this park for residents and visitors alike.”

“Spheres of Reflection” was created through the Department of Arts & Culture’s Public Art Program, which uses significant community feedback to shape the themes, artists, and designs used in public art projects across San Antonio. The sculpture is Dow’s response to the community’s desire to tell an interpretive story, address themes of local and national Civil Rights and enhance the experience of visitors to the area.

Dow also created a smaller sculpture under the same name at the River Walk Public Art Garden located on Market Street between Alamo and Bowie Streets. The sculpture at the River Walk Public Art Garden serves as an introduction and connector to the main installation at Martin Luther King Park to encourage River Walk visitors to explore the larger sculpture, and surrounding parks, businesses, and attractions, on the east side.

“Public art provides the opportunity to create a deeper understanding of and connections to the space where it is placed, as well as our community, ourselves, and each other,” said Department of Arts & Culture Interim Executive Director, Krystal Jones. “This sculpture tells an important story of identity and culture, one told through the vision of one of San Antonio’s emerging and talented artists. In just the short time the piece has been installed, we’ve seen people gather at the sculpture on their walks, bike rides, community meet-ups, and more. We look forward to seeing it be a gathering place for all for generations to come.”

For more information about the “Spheres of Reflection” and to find out about arts and culture programs and events, visit www.SanAntonio.gov/Arts.