South Arlington is poised to become home to a new public art initiative to honor the Civil Rights Movement, led by the nonprofit Create Texas in collaboration with arts advocate Mark Joeckel. As the City of Arlington reported, the project is set within a pioneering multigenerational housing development strategically located at Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Arbrook Boulevard. The plan includes the inauguration of four sculptures that will punctuate the area, celebrating community, creativity, and progress, all crucial themes of the historical era to be commemorated.

A significant portion of this initiative is the first artist call, inviting sculptors to contribute significantly by proposing a 15-20-foot sculpture to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the profound struggle for civil rights. The winning proposal must withstand the rigors of the Texas climate and adhere to durability standards. Artists from diverse backgrounds across a spectrum of artistic approaches are encouraged to apply for this commission, equipped with a $75,000 budget. The commissioned piece is expected to be installed within a tight eight-month timeframe after selection, per specifications by Create Arlington.

Create Texas founder Mark Joeckel expressed his enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing the intersection of public art and residential development. According to the City of Arlington's press release, "This project is a powerful opportunity to integrate public art into a forward-thinking residential space," Joeckel stated. His vision reinforces the ethos behind the community's design—one where connections and artistic expression can coexist and flourish in synergy.