Jackson is the executive architect of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, under construction at the National Mall after more than a dozen years since authorized by Congress.
Why did it take so long to start construction?
I didn’t think it was going to take this long. But name another African-American organization responsible for raising more than $100 million in the span of time we’ve been given. We all came to this as neophytes. Although Congress authorizes you to build a memorial, there are a number of stockholders involved.
What is the concept for the memorial?
The concept is very simple, and that’s part of its strength. The “Mountain of Despair” is a boulder brought to D.C. sliced into pieces. It will be positioned at the entrance of the memorial experience. The centerpiece is the “Stone of Hope,” with an image of his body looking in the direction of the Jefferson Memorial.
Any improvements to the surrounding area?
We’ve added more than 200 cherry blossoms to our site, four acres on the northwest corner of the Tidal Basin. Cherry blossoms bloom around the same time Dr. King was assassinated.
What is the timeline for completion?
We have to go back to China to authorize shipment of the [sculptures], which will come in 159 pieces. We’re targeting 60 days to bring both pieces back here to be finished. Simultaneously, teams will be involved in driving piles down to bedrock. The sculptor and team will be here to finish in September and October. The final stage of construction is from November 2010 to June 2011. We’re targeting a dedication in either August or September.
How will people react to the memorial?
We wanted to create a design solution that was inspirational and emotionally evocative. I think what we have here would do that. Couple that with Dr. King’s words on the wall; you’ll have an experience you won’t forget.
– Brian Hughes
