More To The Story With Staley: Statue Project Update

Dave finds the new statue outside the AIM Center on MLK is almost done

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – There’s Judy! Judy Mogul, working on the big project in front of the AIM Center on MLK Boulevard in downtown Chattanooga. Judy is the center’s Visual Arts Coordinator.

Work! Work! Work! For Judy, other AIM Center employees, as well as AIM Center community members.

A massive 12 foot sculpture, honoring the AIM Center’s late co-founder, Bonnie Currey-Stamps.

It’s a labor of love for sure……but hard work!

SHAWANNA KENDRICK, INTERIM DIRECTOR/ COMMUNITY RELATIONS;
“Just cutting the tile is so intricate. And with all of the other art work on the sculpture, it’s a huge deal. This has never been done before. Not an erect sculpture. So this is huge.”

The AIM Center……AIM stands for achievement, independence and motivation…..opened over 30 years ago. It supports our brothers and sisters who live with mental illness.

Those who continue to work on this sculpture find it difficult, but fun. And relaxing.

More than anything, it’s tremendously meaningful.

KATHRYN WRIGHT, AIM CENTER COMMUNITY MEMBER;
“It makes me feel so successful. It makes me feel good about myself. Because the AIM Center changed my life.”

SHAWANNA KENDRICK, INTERIM DIRECTOR/ COMMUNITY RELATIONS;
“This is extremely meaningful. For so many reasons. To see our members engaged like this….there’s a level of ownership and pride. And that’s what we hope to instill here at the AIM Center.”

The 12 foot sculpture is almost finished. It’ll be officially revealed to the public on October 1st. Offering a sense of hope and bravery, for those who need our support.
Dave Staley, News 12.