Chuck Brown Memorial Park

A section of Langdon Park in Washington DC is now dedicated to Chuck Brown (1936 – 2012). An abstract art installation created by local sculptor Jackie Braitman stands near the park’s entrance, while a retaining wall facing the playground features ten moments and images from Brown’s life (one of them shows the image of Eva Cassidy. Brown and Cassidy recorded the album The Other Side together in 1992) .   

Chuck Brown Park Flyer

Chuck Brown Park Flyer

The Chuck Brown Memorial Park, that was opened on August 22nd, what would have been Mr. Brown’s 78th birthday, is a new and exciting location that truly honors the memory of one of DC’s greatest legends. The memorial wall is made of colored concrete with images of Chuck Brown on ceramic tiles. These images are about 8-12 feet in height. At the southern side of the memorial is a smaller wall of colored concrete with 2 metal panels that lists the musical contributions of Mr. Brown (discography panels).

Chuck Brown Wall

Chuck Brown Wall

The main wall and the discography wall are separated by a stairwell that connects the existing playground area to the new informal performance plaza area along the east end of the site. The plaza is constructed of pervious pavers with a seating area of turf-grass. To the west of the new wall is an interactive instrument area with 5 drums that can be played by visitors.

Chuck Brown Memorial Park

Chuck Brown Memorial Park

The site also contains bio-retention areas with varied landscaping and other site amenities including seating, trash/recycle bins, game and picnic tables.The sculpture consists of three abstract representations; one of Mr. Brown and two dancers. The overall piece is interactive and allows the visitor to experience the go-go ‘call and response’ through LED lights that are activated through motion pads and/or motion sensors throughout the piece.

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