Contributed by
Black Art Speaks
Black Art Speaks, the creative force behind Cincinnati’s renowned Black Lives Matter (BLM) mural, unveiled the “R” letter from the Letter Monuments Project in vibrant Roselawn on May 2, marking the launch of a citywide art initiative that celebrates diversity and community empowerment.
This striking new public artwork at the southwest corner of Reading and Section roads by nationally acclaimed artist and Roselawn Community Council President Annie Ruth stands 10 feet tall as a bold testament to Roselawn’s resilience and a reflection of its progressive identity.
Inspired by her original artwork for the Black Lives Matter mural, Annie Ruth has re-imagined the portrayal of Black men in her design for the “R” sculpture. Through her art, Ruth shifts the narrative from misunderstood stereotypes to images of dignity and respect, depicting Black men as dignified gentlemen.
Ruth said, “We want others to see the males in our lives as gentlemen with kind hearts and not as thugs and criminals. ‘I am a Man’ is a prominent theme in the art. The piece highlights the words as a history lesson, emphasizing the importance of reading. The imagery in the design encourages the viewer to see Black men with love, respect and dignity. The father reads a book to his children with a message of ‘Know who you are’ to remind Black youth to recognize their value and self-worth.
“The newly designed R continues the theme of promoting Black men as leaders, fathers, mentors, brothers and sons. The circles within the circles on the youthful Black silhouette is an Adinkra symbol —
Adinkra are visual symbols that represent concepts or proverbs. They originated from Ghana. Saturated with meaning, Adinkra serve as a concise way to convey deep truths in visual form. Their widespread adoption, especially among African Americans and other Africans across the diaspora, has solidified their status as icons of African symbolism and philosophy.’’
(ADINKRAHENE — (pronounced A-dink-ra + hen-e) is the chief of the adinkra symbols) This is a symbol of greatness, charisma and leadership.)
This transformation embodies the city’s ongoing commitment to justice and equality.
The “R” sculpture is the first of 17 letters that will be strategically placed throughout Cincinnati, with the letter “A” being erected in Avondale next.
Each letter is inspired by a line from the poem “We Want What You Want” by Alandes Powell, helping to weave the city’s rich narrative throughout its urban landscape. Powell is Executive Director of Black Art Speaks, which was involved in the Black Lives Matter street mural in front of the Cincinnati City Hall and this art project.
“The unveiling of the ‘R’ is a cornerstone event that welcomes all to engage and reflect on the significant contributions of Black artists to Cincinnati’s cultural landscape. It’s a celebration of how art fosters community ties, challenges the status quo, and makes a lasting impact on societal perceptions,” said Ruth.
Speakers at the event were Alandes Powell, Executive Director, Black Art Speaks; Annie Ruth, Lead Artist; Jan-Michele Kearney, Vice Mayor of Cincinnati; Jonathan Adee, Executive Director, Keep America Beautiful.