‘Trailblazing’ jurist and civil rights leader sculpture to be unveiled in Madison

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The Wisconsin State Capitol will host a historic event unveiling a new sculpture honoring Vel R. Phillips, “a trailblazing jurist, politician, and civil rights leader.” Phillips made history as the first Black American woman elected to statewide office in Wisconsin, serving as the 29th Secretary of State. The unveiling and public dedication will take place on July 27 at 5 p.m. on the Capitol grounds at S. Hamilton Street, and the event is free to attend.

Led by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County, this event marks the culmination of the Vel Phillips Legacy Initiative Task Force’s work in partnership with the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration in response to the 2020 protests at the State Capitol. The initiative addresses the underrepresentation of the Black community’s contributions to Wisconsin. The Task Force raised more than $550,000 to commission and donate the artwork to the State of Wisconsin. The project received unanimous bipartisan approval in April 2024.

“This historic unveiling is a celebration of Vel Phillips’ trailblazing spirit and a reminder of the importance of representation and equity in our society,” said Michael Johnson, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County. “We are proud to have spearheaded this landmark initiative.”

This sculpture, commissioned by the now-late artist Radcliffe Bailey, marks a significant milestone as the first major artwork of its kind permanently placed outdoors on the grounds of a state capitol building in the U.S. The Task Force commissioned Bailey through the Jack Shainman Gallery in New York.

Mike Phillips, son of Vel Phillips, expressed his profound pride in this tribute to his mother’s legacy. “This sculpture not only honors my mother’s life and work but also stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations,” he said.

The unveiling event will include addresses from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, Michael Phillips, Michael Johnson, the State Executive Board Chair, and other distinguished guests. The public is invited to attend this free event and celebrate the legacies of Vel Phillips and Radcliffe Bailey.

“The sculpture of Vel Phillips by Radcliffe Bailey captures her grounded generosity and engaged connection with the people of our community and our nation,” remarked Marilu Knode, curatorial consultant and member of the Task Force. “With this sculpture, we enter a national dialogue around who gets represented in the public sphere and how artists shape the way we see ourselves and one another, and celebrates Vel Phillips’ work changing our country on behalf of every citizen.”