East Rosedale Avenue is now home to a new public art installation that commemorates the role of transit buses in the civil rights movement.
Houston-based artist (and former Fort Worthian) Christoper Blay transformed a vintage bus into an opportunity for residents to learn more about the stories of the Montgomery bus boycotts, Freedom riders, and local activists who fought for justice and equality in Fort Worth. The engraved plaques also delve into the busing of students from Mansfield High School to I.M. Terrell High School for integration.
Commissioned by Fort Worth Public Art, the 37-ft sculpture was installed earlier this week — with lighting and electrical components coming soon — directly across the street from the future site of the National Juneteenth Museum at 959 East Rosedale St.
The art commission also plans to host a neighborhood poetry contest with the winning poem displayed on an electric screen within the sculpture.
