Pine Belt artists Ben Watts and Vixon Sullivan are putting their heads, hands and hearts together to create the life-size likeness of Vernon Dahmer.
Watts of Columbia is a renowned artist and most recently helped dedicate his statue of Little Jimmy Dickens at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. His portfolio also includes several faith-influenced statues on the campus of William Carey University, as well as a statue of John Wesley on the campus of Millsaps College, Watts’ alma mater in Jackson.
“The family wanted Vixon, who comes over twice a week, to help with the statue,” said Watts. “He has helped tremendously and we are moving rapidly on the large clay sculpture.”
Sullivan, president of the South Mississippi Art Association, describes the sculpting process as “rich.”
“Ben and I have fun and work together well,” he said. “I value his experience and expertise and it is encouraging that he values my opinion and trusts my abilities.”
He said during the creative process the two listen to books, watch TV, and invite one another into each others’ lives by sharing stories and thoughts about life.
For Sullivan, having the opportunity to work on this statue is quite important.
“We live in a world where differences amongst people are not always celebrated,” Sullivan said. “As a result, it is necessary to honor those who fought and died for equality. This Vernon Dahmer story is American history and the statue stands for a brighter further. My hope is that people will take interest in the story and learn from history. Vernon Dahmer embodies a sense of community we could all benefit from. This monument is a step toward making Hattiesburg a national example of how to love and respect and work together in our communities.”
Sullivan said being invited to participate and work on the Dahmer sculpture project is emotionally charged for him.
“I imagine what it means to be so closely tied to the lives affected,” he said. “It is a profound experience to meet the Dahmers, because I believe each family member played a vital role in fighting for equality. They are living history. Despite the traumas they endured, like having to sleep in shifts to avoid terrorism in their own community and home, they maintain a sense of compassion. I feel honored and partly responsible for making sure the sculpture is as authentic and something the family will be proud of.
“Together we symbolize current day unity as a black man and a white man working together in harmony for a common goal that betters our community.”
