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City of Madison

Artist offers preview of sculpture coming to Darbo-Worthington neighborhood

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A clay model of the piece artist Austen Brantley is creating for the Darbo-Worthington neighborhood
Image credit: Austen Brantley

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.

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Austen Brantley

"It is exciting to see the progress Austen Brantley has made on this stunning piece conceived through community engagement with Darbo-Worthington residents and students at Madison College." Nick Pjevach, Chair of the Madison Arts Commission, said.

“Austen’s tribute to single parent mothers and their children is celebrated in this sculpture especially created for the Darbo neighborhood,” Dr. Fabu Carter, Madison’s Poet Laureate emerita and previous Madison Arts Commissioner, said.

About Austen Brantley

Austen Brantley is a Detroit-based artist. His work was first shown in Madison in 2022, when he completed a residency and exhibition at Madison College. His work has been featured across the country.

About the Madison Arts Commission

The Madison Arts Commission encourages artistic activities and initiates cultural programs that integrate, support, and advance arts and culture as an essential part of life in Madison. The Friends of the Madison Arts Commission (FoMAC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was established in 2020 to support the Madison Arts Commission’s efforts.

You can stay updated on the latest arts news and opportunities by signing up for the Madison Arts e-mail newsletter (select Madison Arts Updates under the Department of Planning & Community & Economic Development section).

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