The (Un)Known Project Public Art Experience features artist-led talks that delve into the history of enslavement in Kentucky and the birth of the project and creation of the “On the Banks of Freedom” public art installation. 

To support healing, participants are invited to stand in the footprints along the edge of the platform representing enslaved people looking toward freedom in Indiana and are encouraged to carry/pull a 70lb “replicated” sack representing a 1/3 of the cotton an enslaved person had to pick in a day. During the experience, a libation ceremony will feature reading the names of enslaved people unearthed through the process as candles are lit to honor their lives.

As part of the session, participants are encouraged to confront their family’s history and any involvement in enslavement, and to share the names, documents, stories and archives with the project as a starting place for healing, reconciliation and redemption. 

This month's presentation will be by artists who participated the (Un)Known Project Journeys to Freedom River Cruise!

The "On the Banks of Freedom" public art installation is located between 9th and 10th St. along the Louisville riverwalk. Parking is available in the lot at the north end of 10th St, and behind the Kentucky Science Center. The site is accessible for individuals with mobility impairment from both parking lots. 

We recommend bringing a bottle of water and sunscreen! 

Presentations take place rain or shine - no refunds are available. 

Please note that we often document the Public Art Experiences through photography and videography - if you do not want to be included please let the camera person know. The documentation may be used on social media, our project's documentary, and other forms of storytelling.