On August 20, Forest Forward officially unveiled “For The Culture,” a permanent public‑art piece by nationally recognized artist Jessica Bell. The sculpture now stands in Constantin Corner of the historic Forest Theater in South Dallas, a neighborhood long celebrated for its musical and cultural legacy.
The unveiling drew a crowd of roughly 70 board members, city officials, community leaders and cultural advocates. Among those in attendance were former Dallas Independent School District superintendent Michael Hinojosa, Dallas County District Attorney Democratic nominee Amber Givens, Director of the Dallas Office of Arts and Culture Martine Elyse Philippe, and newly appointed Executive Director of the Dallas Arts District Ahava Silkey‑Jones. Business and civic leaders such as Kelvin Walker, CEO of the Dallas Citizens Council, and community activist Diane Ragsdale also joined the event, along with musical guest Erika Nicole.
Community and Cultural Significance
“We are excited to finally be able to share this piece of art with the South Dallas community,” said Elizabeth Wattley, CEO of Forest Forward. “It is our way of inviting the community to be a part of one of the biggest and historical returns of 2026.” The sculpture is intended to symbolize the ongoing partnership between artists, local residents and the city’s cultural institutions.
Interim executive artistic director Jiles King emphasized the installation’s role as a declaration of commitment: “For every artist who has graced the Forest Theater stage—from B.B. King and Tina Turner to Erykah Badu and Dave Chappelle—and the countless community voices who found a home on this stage, we stand proudly today to permanently affirm this campus is truly for the culture.”
Looking Ahead to the Grand Return
The unveiling marks a milestone in Forest Forward’s broader “Grand Return” plan, which aims to revitalize the Forest Theater as a hub for arts, education and community gathering. The theater’s full reopening is scheduled for November 1, with tickets now available through the organization’s website.
Local officials see the project as a catalyst for economic and cultural growth in South Dallas. By preserving a historic venue and adding contemporary public art, the city hopes to attract new visitors, support local artists and provide families with a safe, enriching environment.
Residents expressed optimism about the project’s impact on neighborhood pride and youth engagement. “Having a permanent piece of art that reflects our heritage encourages our kids to see themselves in the city’s story,” said Diane Ragsdale, a longtime South Dallas community leader.
Forest Forward’s initiative aligns with broader city efforts to invest in cultural infrastructure while maintaining the historic character of Dallas neighborhoods. The organization continues to seek partnerships with local businesses, schools and faith groups to ensure the theater’s programming serves a wide audience.
Tickets for the Grand Return opening night can be purchased at forestforward.org. The event promises performances, tours of the renovated theater and a chance for the public to experience the newly installed “For The Culture” sculpture up close.
Original reporting: Focus Daily News — read the source article.
