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In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)
In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)

© the copyright holder. Image credit: Sky Arts

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Notes

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'A young American boy's dream to change the times he lived in ended up changing the path for many. This sculpture is dedicated to Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867). Ira was passionate about theatre. Confronted with persistent discrimination in the USA, he came to England at the age of 17 to pursue his dream. At only 20, Ira became the manager of Coventry Theatre, the first ever African American to manage a British theatre. While there he made speeches about the evils of slavery which inspired the people of Coventry to petition parliament. Slavery was abolished in England in 1834. This sculpture, inspired by Ira's story, reminds us to follow our dreams and make the difference we want to see in the world. As an artist I believe that public art should fuel and empower our minds, and this sculpture is made to its surroundings and honour Coventry's history.

Title

In Honour of Ira Frederick Aldridge (1807–1867)

Date

2021

Medium

steel

Measurements

H 600 x W (?) x D (?) cm;
Plinth: H 200 x W (?) x D (?) cm

Accession number

CV1_LM_S001

Acquisition method

commissioned by Sky Arts for the series 'Landmark'; supported by Coventry City Council

Work type

Statue

Work status

extant

Installation start date

2021

Installation end date

2031

Unveiling date

2021

Access

at all times

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Located at

2 Croft Road, Coventry

CV1 3AZ