Artist offers preview of sculpture coming to Darbo-Worthington neighborhood

From City of Madison

Artist Austen Brantley is sharing images of a clay model he is developing for the City of Madison. The figurative sculpture he is working on in his Detroit studio focuses on the bond between mother and child.

“Embedded within the contours are narratives of struggle, perseverance, and triumph, reflecting the daily realities faced by individuals within marginalized communities,” Brantley’s artist statement explains. “Through my sculpture, I invite viewers to contemplate the complexities of cultural identity, the enduring legacy of historical narratives, and the resilience of communities facing socioeconomic challenges. By bridging the past and the present, I strive to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human experience and the enduring power of art to transcend barriers and unite disparate worlds.”

Brantley’s work for Madison will be approximately 40” high x 36” wide x 24” deep. The sculpture will be installed this summer along East Washington Avenue, adjacent to the pedestrian and bike path near Darbo Drive. He will continue to document his process as he develops “Mother and Child” for the Darbo-Worthington neighborhood. 

I am very honored to be working with the City of Madison to complete this project. This work is very special to me because it speaks to the importance of family and honoring mothers everywhere. I am proud of this commission and hope it inspires people in the community to act with love, compassion, and grace every day.

-Austen Brantley

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Last year, Wisconsin’s capital unveiled another statue of a Black woman.

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