photo from the PoPville archives March 23, 2010
We had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Nelson back in 2010: Meet Uzikee Nelson – One of DC’s Greatest Artists
Thanks to a reader for passing on the sad news from Councilmember Janeese Lewis George:
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Allen “Uzikee” Nelson, a visionary sculptor whose monumental work honoring Black history, culture, and liberation has left an indelible mark across DC.
Here in Ward 4, his powerful sculpture “Here I Stand, In the Spirit of Paul Robeson” has become part of the fabric of Petworth and a lasting reminder of the strength, dignity, and courage of our people. Across our city,
his art has helped generations of Washingtonians see themselves, their history, and their power reflected in our public spaces.
My heart is with his beloved wife and fellow artist, Januwa, whose own Afrofuturist work has enriched DC’s creative community, and with his entire family, loved ones, and all those mourning this tremendous loss. Our city is more beautiful, more powerful, and more deeply rooted because Uzikee shared his gifts with us. May he rest in power.”