Lexington Unveils ‘A Common Thread’ Sculpture Celebrating Community

Lexington, KY, October 23, 2025

News Summary

Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton has unveiled a new public sculpture titled ‘A Common Thread’ to commemorate the city’s 250th anniversary. Created by artist Benjamin Ball, this artwork symbolizes unity and connection, featuring poetic fragments from local writers. The sculpture is prominently displayed in the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza and invites community reflection on shared identities. The dedication ceremony included representatives from Lexington’s Sister Cities and emphasized the importance of public art in fostering community engagement.

Lexington, KY – Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton unveiled a new public sculpture titled “A Common Thread” on Wednesday, marking the city’s 250th anniversary. This artwork is now displayed prominently in the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza and serves as a symbol of unity and connection within the community.

The sculpture, crafted by Benjamin Ball of Ball-Nogues Studio, invites viewers to reflect on shared identities and what binds the community together. It integrates fragments of poetry from five notable local writers, including Silas House, Frank X Walker, George Ella Lyon, Jeff Worley, and Eva Alcaraz-Monje. These poetic pieces merge with mirrored elements of the surrounding streetscape, creating a dynamic interaction between the artwork and the public.

During the dedication ceremony, attended by representatives from Lexington’s Sister Cities in France, Ireland, Japan, and England, as well as delegates from its Friendship City in South Korea, Mayor Gorton emphasized the significance of public art. She articulated that such installations reflect the city’s innovative future and its commitment to community engagement. The event was streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel to reach a broader audience.

Jim Clark, a member of the selection committee, highlighted that the public art collection is reflective of Lexington’s rich history and creativity. The installation of “A Common Thread” represents not just a celebration of the city’s past but also an invitation for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the narrative of Lexington.

The sculpture aims to foster public engagement, offering a space for contemplation and reflection about the community’s interconnectedness. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing public spaces and integrating art into the everyday lives of its residents. Heather Lyons, the former Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs, played a pivotal role in ensuring the realization of this project.

As Lexington celebrates its 250th anniversary, “A Common Thread” serves not only as a piece of art but also as a lasting reminder of the community’s strengths and shared values.

Key Features of “A Common Thread”

• Artist: Benjamin Ball of Ball-Nogues Studio
• Location: Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza, Lexington, KY
• Purpose: Symbolizes unity and community connection
• Incorporated Poetry: Fragments from five local writers
• Event Attendees: Representatives from Sister Cities and Friendship City
• Streaming: Livestreamed on the city’s YouTube channel

Background Information

Lexington has celebrated its 250th anniversary with a series of events and initiatives aimed at honoring its history and culture. The unveiling of “A Common Thread” is a pivotal moment in these festivities, as public art has been recognized as a key component in enhancing community development. By focusing on the contributions of local poets and artists, the city emphasizes its dedication to fostering a vibrant and culturally rich environment for residents and visitors alike.

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Additional Resources

• LEX 18 News
• Wikipedia: Lexington, Kentucky
• Fox 56 News
• Google Search: Lexington Kentucky 250th anniversary
• WTVQ News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington Kentucky
• Kentucky.com
• Google News: public art in Lexington

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