Public Art Commission invites you to Mr. Smedley unveiling

See “The Street Entertainer” in his new digs.

June 19, 2014; 9:55 AM • by Eric Steigleder

You’re invited! Here’s the press release from the City:

Richmond, VA – Residents are invited to attend the official unveiling of the Mr. Smedley Statue at his new location in Jefferson Hill Park, at the intersection of North 21^st Street and Princess Anne Avenue. The unveiling will occur onWednesday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m. during the annual Union Hill Civic Association Potluck Picnic.

Mr. Smedley, also known as “The Street Entertainer”, is a statue of a smiling, tall, lanky entertainer doffing his bowler hat, revealing a mouse perched on his head. The statue was crafted by sculptor John Temple “Jack” Witt and was originally placed in the food court of the former 6^th Street Marketplace.

The location of Mr. Smedley in Jefferson Hill Park along a walkway, near a lighted entrance, will allow the statue to greet visitors of the park. The statue will also be visible from the right-of-way and will be in close proximity to the park’s playground, allowing interaction between children and the statue, which is the original intent of the sculptor.

For Public Art Commission meeting announcements including meeting date, time and location visit www.richmondgov.com/content/CommissionPublicArt/index.aspx.