Life-sized bronze sculpture details Mr. Tucker’s life and pays tribute to Norfolk’s African American history
NORFOLK, VA – Public art honoring Richard A. Tucker, a key figure in Norfolk’s African American history, will be dedicated on the grounds of the library bearing his name on Saturday, Nov. 19, at 10 a.m.
Norfolk Arts commissioned artist Vinnie Bagwell of Yonkers, NY to create “Richard A. Tucker,” a life-sized, free-standing bronze sculpture depicting Tucker, honoring his legacy as Norfolk’s first African American principal and advocate for black education. Bas-relief details honor the rich culture and history of the Campostella community and the people who live, work and contribute to its continued legacy.
“Education is the right of every American,” says Bagwell. “My vision of Richard A. Tucker is a means by which to sharpen memories, provoke critical thinking, and give voice to Norfolk’s African American history and meaning to its legacies.”
Join the artist, Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander and Norfolk Arts at the Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library for the dedication ceremony and celebration reception featuring a live, interactive puppet-making theatre created by local artist and founder of Meliq on the Move, Tanya Shadley.
Free shuttle service provided to the event from Oakleaf Forest and Diggs Town. Shuttles will stop every 15 minutes between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Pickup locations will be identified with black balloons.
Richard A. Tucker Public Art Dedication and Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 19
10 a.m. – Noon
Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library
2350 Berkley Ave. EXT
Norfolk, VA 23523
Free and open to the public