John A. Wilson Building, Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, D.C.
8′ x 3′ x 3′
Bronze
2018

This heroic-sized bronze sculpture commemorates the life and work of Washington, D.C.’s beloved “Mayor for Life,” Marion S. Barry Jr. The intention was to portray the mayor walking among and waving to his constituents, as he always did, highlighting his dedication to his community and to Washington, D.C. As we learned about Barry’s life, legacy, and presence in the city, his unique story and exceptional personality came to life in this statue.

Friendly, determined, and a master of politics, Barry is depicted as he is most often remembered—wearing his favorite suit and crocodile-skin shoes. A quote from Barry’s autobiography is engraved in the plinth, reflecting his efforts on behalf of his constituents while holding D.C.’s highest office.

Commissioned by the D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities, the statue is currently on permanent display outside the John A. Wilson Building on Pennsylvania Avenue. This is one of only three full-body bronze statues of African Americans erected in the District of Columbia, and Barry is also the first locally elected official to be honored with a statue.