ALAN D. ENTIN, PhD
For over four decades I practiced clinical psychology in a building overlooking the statue of General Robert E Lee in Richmond, Virginia. Always the focal point of celebrations, rallies, re-enactments and protests, in the summer of Black Lives Matters and Covid the activities surrounding the Monument to the Lost Cause has taken on added significance as the flashpoint for artistic, social and political protests, demonstrations and events in support of social justice and equality. The expressions of psychological fears, hopes and dreams, anger and frustration painted in the street language of graffiti were recently recognized by the New York Times as the most significant work of American Protest Art since World War II.
As I looked out the window and watched the various protests and demonstrations I wondered “(W)hat if...” What if individuals with emotional, behavioral, marital or physical problems would be able to get support and help with their problems. What if we had more equitable systems to deal with racism and social inequities? What if first responders were trained in recognizing and dealing with mental health emergencies, replacing actions with calm, with words? If only, “what if?” As a clinical psychologist I believe in the power conversations and listening, really listening... words and listening have the power to change the world and to achieve peace.
After I wrote this artist’s statement, the historic court decision to remove the statue of Lee was announced and carried out, opening up the possibility of change to achieve racial justice, equity and peace.
George Floyd in the Sky with Lee
(Color Digital Photograph, Image 8” x 8” on 11” x 11” Paper)
In my photograph of George Floyd in the Sky with Lee, I combined two photographs: a holographic projection of George Floyd in a ceremonial event at the statue of Lee to commemorate the “transition of his passing” by his family with a picture of Lee with the strong billowing clouds. The resulting photograph portrays a gigantic George Floyd towering over the miniature Robert E Lee, achieving immortality in death which he could not achieve in life.