Letter
Dear Ms. O'Dell:
In its meeting of 16 July, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed and approved the architectural site design and the revised concept for inscriptions and artwork for the proposed American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial at 2nd and C Streets, SW. The Commission expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see the extensive mockup of the artwork prior to the meeting.
In their discussion, the Commission members reiterated their support for the evocative quality of the artwork, commenting that it will inspire visitors to the memorial as well as those working nearby who will walk through it on a daily basis. They considered the question of providing additional source information to clarify the historical context of the quotations; however, they approved the simpler treatment proposed, noting the assurance that supplemental information will be available to the public through other sources at the memorial site.
The Commission delegated to the staff the review of site design and architectural construction documents, noting its preference for the even distribution of illumination along the Wall of Gratitude. The Commission also delegated review of the final submission for artwork and inscriptions to the staff, with any substantive changes or outstanding concerns to be brought back to the Commission for direct review if necessary. Please coordinate with the staff for the final submission when ready.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Margaret O'Dell, Regional Director
National Park Service, National Capital Region
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242
cc: Peter May, National Park Service
Michael Vergason, Michael Vergason Landscape Architects, Ltd.
Barry Owenby, Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation