Created as a tribute to Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. , this weathered steel form is an abstract symbol of two wings, which represent freedom. The wings cross each other at the center from opposite directions, forming a cross. The artist, Daniel LaRue Johnson, donated the sculpture to the Park Board in 1970 when the park, formerly known as Nicollet Field Park, was rededicated and renamed as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park.
In 2014, members of the Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center designed and installed benches to complement the Freedom Form II sculpture in the park. These benches and surrounding gardens, now called The Beloved Community Space, create a place to learn, reflect, and contemplate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s thoughts, ideas, and values. Inscribed on the benches are quotes from Dr. King himself as well as reflections on those quotes from community members.
