Brownsville, Tennessee is set to honor its iconic native, the late Queen of Rock 'n' Roll Tina Turner, with a seven-foot-tall bronze statue in Heritage Park, near Turner's alma mater, Carver High School, thanks to a generous donation from Ford Motor Company. As reported by Action News 5, Ford's contribution of $150,000 is part of their goodwill endeavor for the region, the Good Neighbor Plan for West Tennessee, aiming to maintain community ties and honor the region's culture and heritage.
While the city celebrates this moment of homage, Mayor William Rawls expressed more profound sentiments about the significance of the statue, saying, "This is more than a statue--it's a story in bronze, a symbol of triumph, and a message to future generations that greatness can come from anywhere," according to FOX13 Memphis.
As the automotive giant lays roots with its new BlueOval City in neighboring Stanton, Ford recognizes the influence of regional histories and legacies, continually seeking to cherish and immortalize them, Ford Community Relations Director Gabby Bruno said “We are proud to support this statue in the community where Tina Turner’s journey began. In helping to preserve her legacy, we celebrate all in this region who reach for their dreams,” as cited by The Commercial Appeal.
The sculptor selected to bring this vision to life is Atlanta-based African-American artist Fred Ajanogha, also known as Ajano, renowned for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects in metal.
A statue honoring music icon Tina Turner will be unveiled this September during Tina Turner Heritage Days in West Tennessee, celebrating her legacy and humble beginnings. Fans from around the world are expected to attend the event. The statue will be part of a new park that includes a plaza designed as a gathering space, and donations for the project are still being accepted, according to FOX13 Memphis.
