Residents of DeSoto get ready for a historical moment on Saturday, September 23, at 1 p.m., when the city will be unveiling its inaugural public art sculpture.
The event will take place at Ernie Roberts Park, where Austin area artist Olaniyi R. Akindiya Akirash’s masterpiece, titled “PALABRA-WORDS,” will be gracing the Roy Orr Trail.
Akindiya, native-born of Lagos, Nigeria, is an artist with an artistic vision that focuses on time and fleeting moments that can be easily forgotten or transformed.
Through his art, Akindiya takes a close look at the differences between rural and city life, the fast changes happening in our society, and how people express themselves regarding challenging topics like trauma, identity, immigration, gun violence, race, history, and religion.
His work breaks down the usual boundaries and gets art lovers thinking about these complex issues in a new way.
The sculpture, a testament to Akirash’s artistic prowess, promises to be a captivating addition to DeSoto’s cultural landscape.
Composed of intriguing elements that seamlessly merge nature and creativity, “PALABRA-WORDS” is an embodiment of artistic innovation.
Residents and art enthusiasts alike are invited to join in the celebration as DeSoto is welcoming this remarkable piece that will endure as a symbol of the city’s commitment to the arts.
The event offers a unique opportunity to explore the sculpture’s intricate details while gaining insight into the artist’s creative process.
Don’t miss out on this momentous occasion.
The DeSoto, Texas Cultural Arts Foundation, with city elected officials and staff, will be attending the unveiling at Ernie Roberts Park on Saturday and want residents to be part of DeSoto’s artistic legacy.
The unveiling will be the city’s first public sculpture.
DeSoto Tribune Staff 
Joshua Carter