Historic Herndon Plaza Spotlights Atlanta's Icons with New Public Art Installation

ATLANTA - July 19, 2024 - PRLog -- The Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) and Dashboard partner to unveil ICONoclasts, a new public art installation by Atlanta-based artist Marryam Moma. This captivating display will grace the windows of Herndon Plaza, a landmark building in the heart of Sweet Auburn.

ICONoclasts shines a light on six of Atlanta's most influential Black figures: Ricci de Forest, Mtamanika Youngblood, Sue Ross, Dr. Doris Derby, John Wesley Dobbs, and Alice Lovelace. Through Moma's signature collage work, the installation brings their stories to life with never-before-seen portraits and archival photographs. These vibrant tributes celebrate the enduring impact these icons have made on Atlanta's artistic and social landscape.

Each piece transcends the two-dimensional plane with the addition of acrylic boxes and text-based work handcrafted by Atlanta-based artist Antonio Darden. Darden, a former resident of the surrounding neighborhood, feels a deep personal connection to the project. "I am honored to be a part of something that celebrates the individuals who built and continue to shape our city's legacy," he says.

ICONoclasts serves a dual purpose: honoring the rich cultural heritage of Sweet Auburn and transforming Herndon Plaza into a vibrant hub for community engagement. This initiative aligns perfectly with HDDC's mission to revitalize the district and foster a sense of cultural pride.

"Art and culture are a vital part of community development and revitalization," said Mtamanika Youngblood, HDDC's founding Executive Director, "I am proud of the work the Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) has done, and the work it continues to do that captures that ethic and perspective."

ICONoclasts Opening Details

Where: 142-148 Auburn Ave. NE

When: August 1, 2024, 6-8 PM

On view through December 31, 2024

Free and open to the public.

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The Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) is a cornerstone of Atlanta's equitable development. As the city's oldest community development corporation, HDDC's focus has been on preserving affordable housing and the historic legacy of the Old Fourth Ward for nearly four decades. Learn more about HDDC's mission and initiatives at hddc.org.

Dashboard is a nonprofit art organization transforming our shared spaces with artwork & imagination. For more information about Dashboard, visit dashboard.us.

Funding for this project was provided by AEC Trust, Atlanta Downtown/A&E Atlanta, and the Forward Arts Foundation.