Lexington native and local artist Derek King, Jr. has been chosen to create original artwork for the Officer Dining Room in the Lexington Detention Center.
Twenty-three artists responded to the Request for Proposals released by the Mayor’s Office in April. King was chosen, in part, because his proposal responded to the employees’ desire for a design that would connect them to the city they serve, and also reflect a calming and peaceful environment for their dining room.
“Our local artists are some of the most talented individuals in the Commonwealth,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “I am confident that Derek’s work will honor and uplift our hardworking Detention Center employees, and proudly represent our arts community.”
The purpose of the artwork is to enhance the environment of the dining room with a distinctive aesthetic experience; provide excitement and interest for the employee environment; and create a visual break from the institutional setting.
“It was a pleasure to work with Chief Scott Colvin, Deputy Chief Hector Joyner, and the employee committee, to select an artist for the mural in their Officer Dining Room,” said Heather Lyons, Lexington Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs. “Derek King created a beautiful design that is meaningful to the employees, and I can’t wait for all of the employees to be able to experience it and enjoy it in their work environment.”
King graduated from Bryan Station High School and the University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, with a focus in drawing and painting. He has completed several commissioned murals, and has had artwork in numerous gallery exhibitions. He created illustrations for the children’s book, “We all Count” by Kay Safari, and has provided graphic design for album covers and other projects. He is also a tattoo artist.
“What inspired me to do this piece was because it was for and about the community,” King said. “As a member of the community, I felt compelled to tell the stories of the Lexington community, and give the officers an escape from their work life.”
The City of Lexington will contract with King to complete his design on the 400-square-foot wall.
For more information about Lexington’s Public Arts Commission, go to lexingtonky.gov/boards/public-arts-commission.
