Spirit of Bessie Coleman #2

Spirit of Bessie Coleman #2 was created using an actual kit airplane that was once flown, and later crashed, by its original owner. The artist, Bernard Williams acquired the aircraft with the intent to recontextualize and exhibit it. For this sculpture, Williams draws inspiration from the life and historic impact of Chicagoan Bessie Coleman who lived from 1892-1926. She was the first Black woman to earn a pilot license. 

Here, you are invited to reflect on Bessie Coleman’s pioneering aviation career. Despite the many obstacles she faced as a Black woman in early 20th-century America, Coleman broke racial and gender barriers for future generations of Black aviators. This sculptural monument honors the risks she took and celebrates her legacy, which continues to empower us all to rise above to better circumstances.

Come inside the Museum to view the sculpture up close. The experience invites viewers into close proximity with the physical experience of piloting a plane. Imagine yourself inside this small cockpit. 

“From my perspective, it is a rather fragile construction, which embodies a high degree of risk and adventure. It also represents a level of human accomplishment which we often take for granted in our current moment,” says Williams. 

As part of CROSSINGS, visitors may also view a pole sculpture honoring Bessie Coleman installed on the north side of the Museum’s parking lot along the sidewalk toward the library.

In addition to the airplane kit, artist Bernard Williams used EPS Foam, polyurethane, wooden ornaments, US Flags, and paint to create Spirit of Bessie Coleman #2 which stands 6ft x 18ft x 25ft. The artwork is dated 2017-2025