A jury from the cultural community of Niagara Falls has decided upon the proposed work, “Progress” by Jacob Headley as the selection for the City of Niagara Falls Wilma Morrison Digital Art.

The winning proposal was selected from 15 submissions. The selection was based on the response to the competition’s goal and themes, appropriateness and artistic excellence. It will be 4m wide x 3.4m high and installed on the exterior of the upcoming Exchange Studio building, in the Wilma Morrison Courtyard. Public art helps strengthen the city’s visual identity, stimulates the economy, and enhances tourism and community pride.

“I have chosen to portray Wilma’s portrait as the main focal point of the rendering as this is ultimately a tribute to her and her amazing life and family. When learning about Wilma, she was clearly someone who was deeply loved and respected by those around her. Wilma was, among many things: a mentor, a teacher, a historian. It became very apparent she had a deep passion for the preservation of black history within the Niagara region. This piece is a portrayal of not only Wilma herself but also the history, of which, she was so passionate to help preserve. Wilma was of the opinion that if we do not know where we come from, it will be hard to know where we are going.” Jacob Headley