New Hanover County is moving forward with plans to honor one of its most famous natives, NBA legend Michael Jordan, through a large-scale sculpture prominently displayed at the Project Grace development in downtown Wilmington. The sculpture will be installed in the outdoor plaza of the new combined public library and Cape Fear Museum, a facility currently under construction on a 3-acre block bordered by Second and Third streets, and Chestnut and Grace streets.
The county is inviting area artists to submit renderings of the sculpture. According to county officials, the artwork is intended uplift children and families. It is expected to embody themes of “strong values, a journey to excellence, and a drive to succeed and dream big,” while also reflecting the lasting legacy of Michael Jordan and his family’s impact on Wilmington.
The sculpture shown on the left is located outside the Bulls stadium in Chicago. The future one in Wilmington will be located in a “highly trafficked” area near the front entrance of the new public space, ensuring that it becomes a prominent visual and cultural centerpiece for visitors.
Artists interested in submitting designs for the sculpture are required to provide original concepts, a letter of intent, examples of previous relevant work, and participate in an interview process. The county’s RFP outlines that the maximum project budget will not exceed $540,000, which includes costs for design, artist fees, materials, travel, and installation, among other expenses.
A subcommittee will evaluate submissions, with final approval subject to a vote by the board of commissioners. Applications are being accepted through January 13, 2025, at 5 p.m. The goal is to have the sculpture installed and ready for the grand opening of the new Cape Fear Museum in 2026.
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