This stone sculptural monument commemorates and mourns the tragic loss of human life at its earliest stage and communicates that the citizens of Arkansas value and cherish all human life from the moment of conception until natural death.
The monument is conceived as a Cenotaph or empty tomb. It is inspired by the ancient tradition of erecting monuments to commemorate those dead whose bodies could not be recovered, such as soldiers fallen in foreign wars or sailors lost at sea. Cenotaphs have taken diverse forms in different historical periods and regions. This design is inspired by classical Roman sarcophagi which were often richly sculpted from solid blocks of stone.
Our design consists of a sculptured sarcophagus mounted on a plinth which is set upon a three-tiered base. The base is placed within a raised flower garden. A low retaining wall bounds the flower bed. The monument is surrounded by a paved pathway and a perimeter of stone benches.
.The composition described above could be executed entirely of stone or as a combination of stone and bronze. It would be desirable to utilize stone native to Arkansas. Batesville Marble, an excellent carving stock, may be sourced locally. Andrew Wilson Smith has extensive experience carving in this durable and consistent blue-gray stone. Granite, soapstone, and marble may also be incorporated as appropriate.
In collaboration with Andrew Wilson Smith, Sculptor
Arkansas State Capitol Grounds
Status: Competition decision to be made May 2026
