Statue of Martin Luther King Jr. (Austin, Texas) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Statue of Martin Luther King Jr. |
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The statue in 2018
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| Artist |
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| Year | 1999 |
| Medium | Bronze sculpture |
| Subject | Martin Luther King Jr. |
| Location | Austin, Texas, United States |
| 30°17′7.7″N 97°44′10.3″W / 30.285472°N 97.736194°W | |
The Statue of Martin Luther King Jr. is a special outdoor artwork. It is a bronze sculpture that shows Martin Luther King Jr., a very important American civil rights leader. The artists who created this statue are Jeffrey Varilla and Anna Koh-Varilla. You can find this statue on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin in Austin, Texas. It was put in place in September 1999.
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Discover Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a famous American leader. He worked hard for civil rights for all people. He believed in fairness and equality. He used peaceful ways to fight for change. His work helped to end unfair laws and practices in the United States. He is remembered for his powerful speeches and his dream of a world where everyone is treated equally.
Creating the Statue
The idea for this statue came from a group of students. They were studying at the University of Texas at Austin. In 1987, these students formed a group called the Martin Luther King Jr. Sculpture Foundation. They wanted to create a lasting memorial to Dr. King on their campus. Their hard work and dedication helped make this statue a reality.
Why a Statue?
Statues are often built to honor important people. They help us remember their achievements and the values they stood for. This statue of Martin Luther King Jr. reminds students and visitors about his message. It encourages them to continue working for justice and equality. It also celebrates his connection to the state of Texas.
The Artists Behind the Work
Jeffrey Varilla and Anna Koh-Varilla are the artists who created this sculpture. They are known for their ability to capture the spirit of the people they sculpt. For this statue, they worked together to create a powerful image of Dr. King. Their skill brought the vision of the students to life.
About the Sculpture
The statue is made from bronze. Bronze is a strong metal that artists often use for sculptures. It can last for a very long time, even outdoors. This helps the statue stand as a permanent tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. The sculpture shows Dr. King in a thoughtful and determined pose.
Where to Find It
The statue is located on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin. This university is a large and important school in Texas. Placing the statue here means many young people will see it. It can inspire them to learn more about civil rights history. The statue is a landmark on the campus.
