The Liberian Mural Fund: HFAS16 Exhibit Seeks New Home
The Liberian Mural was showcased at the Harlem Fine Art Show 2024 as a masterpiece of art and a powerful tribute that held deep significance in African American history. Created by the talented Liberian artist Alfred Yeagon, the mural spoke volumes about the rich cultural heritage and history of African Americans repatriating to Africa. The intricate sculptural details in the 10 ft. x 20 ft. vibrant mahogany wood panel depicted scenes of resilience, unity, and hope, reflecting the spirit of return to the motherland by people of African ancestry in 1820.
Maria King Wallace, the owner and curator of The Liberian Mural Relief, preserved this tangible piece of African American history, originally created by Alfred Yeagon in 1979. The mural symbolized hope, history, culture, ancestry, and healing. Initially slated for exhibition at the OAU (1980 Organization of African Unity Conference) in Liberia, it was brought to the United States by Maria King Wallace and
her family for preservation during the Liberian War in the mid-80s. Surviving as one of the few art artifacts after the brutal conflict, the mural consists of 18 panels measuring 10 ft. by 20 ft., ingeniously fitting together using a traditional intricate groove system.
In 2017, Maria King Wallace loaned The Liberian Mural to Harlem Hospital, recognizing its cultural and healing value. Covered by Jeffrey Mays and Michelle Agins of The New York Times, its installation at the hospital’s new pavilion was overseen by Deputy Director Sylvia White and Ebone Carrington. Voza Rivers, Director of New Heritage Theatre and the Harlem Arts Alliance, served as the Master of Ceremonies for its unveiling, where it adorned the hospital’s entrance for five years, telling the story of Africa, the Middle Passage, and the founding of Liberia.
The iconic Liberian Mural at the Harlem Fine Art Show 2024 stood as a symbol of cultural pride, resilience, and unity, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of African American heritage and history. It served as a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries, evoke emotions, and spark meaningful conversations about identity and belon
ging. The mural remains available for loan, permanent installation, or as a traveling exhibit, continuing to captivate and provoke thought wherever it is displayed.
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For more information visit: https://theliberianmural.org
