Jim Benedict worked as a public artist for over a decade. A professor of sculpture at Jacksonville University, where an emphasis of Benedict’s and JU’s curriculum is public art production, his approach to public art is community-based. He saw public art as an opportunity for a collaborative process that brings together artistic vision and the cultural identity of a community.

JimBenedict.com 

​ARTIST STATEMENT
Over the last century, the Constitutional Memorial obelisk has been witness to great societal changes. It has been a place marker for the long march to freedom for all citizens. The obelisk has been inverted to liberate it from the market grounds. We are free to see it from a new perspective. Historical references to the city complete the pediment. Altogether, the elements form a game piece that has the freedom to go in any direction. It is up to the players to make a move.

Materials include wood, fiberglass, steel, and locally sourced seashells.

Originally located at the Visitor Information Center, now on display outside Fort Mose Historic State Park.

Freedom to live according to one’s own culture, religion, and lifestyle is a universal human right. St. Augustine has a historic perspective including freedom lost and freedom found. It has been a triumphant place where many have found freedom, but also where significant struggles for the sake of freedom occurred. In celebrating our heritage, we must acknowledge there are scars left from injustices as we work to expand awareness and compassionately seek reconciliation and healing.

To truly commemorate the 450th, this pillar represents freedom and our commitment to learning from both the triumphant and tragic events in St. Augustine’s history.

Much has been written by those who seek to bring attention to the struggles for freedom throughout history. The 14th Dalai Lama said, “Peace can only last where human rights are respected, where the people are fed, and where individuals and nations are free.”

Author Pearl Buck wrote, “None who have always been free can understand the terrible fascinating power of the hope of freedom to those who are not free.”