To the Art Commission:

As the sculptor of the Frank Rizzo statue, I am writing to request to be part of the conversation regarding the future of the sculpture in a thorough and reasoned manner, not a rush to judgment, which could be a big mistake. I am alarmed about what appears to be a willingness to associate the two-term mayor of a major city with traitorous leaders of the Confederacy. I think it is outrageous to create this straw man argument to move a bronze sculpture.

In my opinion, I do not see the need for moving this sculpture. Consider that three African American mayors of Philadelphia did not see the need for the sculpture to be removed during their tenure.

If the majority of Philadelphians and the powers that be want this sculpture removed and relocated, I am available to lend my expertise so that the sculpture is not damaged in the move. The sculpture was installed with stainless steel structures beneath it that will make it very difficult to remove. If it is to be moved, those in charge need to be in touch with those who cast it, Laran Bronze in Chester, Pa., and those who installed it, George Young Co., for consultation so it is removed with the least amount of property damage and so no individuals are injured in the process.

I welcome a thorough and in-depth conversation on these subjects.

Respectfully,

Zenos Frudakis

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