Sky's The Limit In The County Of Kings, By Sherwin Banfield

The DUMBO Improvement District (Dumbo) and the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership (DBP) unveiled a new interactive installation in Dumbo at the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge: Sky’s the Limit in the County of Kings, Sherwin Banfield’s new sculpture in honor of Christopher “The Notorious B.I.G” Wallace. A sonic sculptural tribute inspired by and dedicated to the art, life, and legacy of this Brooklyn Hip Hop legend, the form and structure of “Sky’s the Limit in the County of Kings” challenges the traditions of western public sculpture by representing his African American artistry, lineage, and evolution as the “King of New York.” The crowned bust is traditionally sculpted, sitting atop an angular steel frame and supported by panels that highlight Wallace’s achievements and contemporaries. This reflective, nine feet tall, mixed media, stainless steel and bronze structure invites the viewer to experience the larger-than-life artistry of B.I.G.’s contributions to and love of Brooklyn, Hip-Hop culture, and community. Representing Brooklyn to the fullest, a shining example of perseverance and the inherent belief that the “Sky’s the Limit in the County of Kings.” This sculpture is exhibited as part of NYC Parks’ Art in the Park program.

“It was all a dream’ the opening lyric from The Notorious B.I.G.’s hit track ‘Juicy’ exemplifies my dream of creating this monument. Receiving a grant from the Downtown Brooklyn + Dumbo Art Fund offers me the support and resources to execute this dream project and introduce it to the community of Brooklyn. Delivering this project means so much to me personally, my story and artistic development as well as countless fans of Hip-Hop Culture who continue to be positively affected and influenced by the communal experiences and sonic frequencies of B.I.G.’s artistry. His art of storytelling act as personal soundtracks to our lives. Receiving this support also adds to the historic relationship between The Notorious B.I.G. and Brooklyn. Brooklyn is his foundation, his influence, his support system, his number one fan, his home. More importantly, I cherish the significance of the potential impact on young children of color who will have an opportunity to experience a public sculpture that represents and reflects their identity, circumstance and/or dreams.”
-Sherwin Banfield, Artist

“This is a spectacular piece that will greet countless New Yorkers. Giving space to new kinds of monuments and works is what a public art fund is all about. We are very proud to be hosting this work.” said Alexandria Sica, President of the Dumbo Improvement District.

“The Notorious B.I.G. has had a profound impact on the music industry and there is no better way to honor his legacy than with Sherwin’s tribute,” said Regina Myer, President of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. “Located at one of Brooklyn’s most iconic locations — the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge — this installation will allow New Yorkers and visitors to explore how B.I.G.’s native city shaped his artistry. We are so proud to present this important work that advances the mission of the Downtown Brooklyn + Dumbo Art Fund.”