New Sculpture Celebrates South Dallas Culture and Forest Theater’s Return
Forest Forward unveiled a permanent public artwork, “For The Culture,” on August 20 at Constantin Corner on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in South Dallas. Created by community and public artist Jessica Bell, the sculpture celebrates the neighborhood’s creativity, resilience and spirit. The installation also points toward the planned return of the historic Forest Theater. Forest Forward hopes the theater will again provide space for arts, culture, education and opportunity in South Dallas. At the unveiling, CEO Elizabeth Wattley discussed the meaning of “For The Culture,” while artistic director Jiles King spoke about bringing different art forms together around a theater that has been part of the community for generations. The event gave guests ways to take part as well as view the sculpture. Operatic soprano and R&B artist Erika Nicole performed, visitors interacted with the artwork, and a writing wall invited them to answer the question, “What does ‘For The Culture’ mean to you?” The activities connected the new installation with residents’ own ideas about the neighborhood’s culture and future. Forest Forward has scheduled the Forest Theater’s “Grand Return” for November 1, 2026. The celebration is planned as a block party with live entertainment, food, vendors and community experiences.
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