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Dean Dixon
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Dean Dixon
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Nathan Zucker
The iconic, 42-foot Athena Parthenos at the Parthenon — the largest indoor statue in the Western Hemisphere — is turning 35 this year.
To commemorate this anniversary, the Parthenon invited Athena’s creator, Alan LeQuire, to do a full takeover of the museum with two major exhibitions (Goddess in Progress and Monumental Figures) displayed at the Parthenon this summer. The only person to ever be given this honor, he showcases new works in the East Gallery, in the Naos, where Athena stands, and even outside the Parthenon.
His exhibit Goddess in Progress, displayed in the East Gallery of the Parthenon, showcases the 8-year process of creating Athena. Additionally, LeQuire’s new collection of 24 larger-than-life sculptures, Monumental Figures, features sculptures of strong women throughout history, including musicians, athletes, and Civil Rights leaders. This exhibit is displayed in the Naos alongside Athena, the adjacent Treasury, and the exterior East Plaza.
“The selection process for Monumental Figures was a gradual accumulation of ideas for sculpture based on memory, history, and observation. I narrowed down the cast of characters by sketching, making small models, and choosing the ones that meant the most to me,” LeQuire says. “I am trying to honor women, but not only women of great achievement — instead, I want to honor all women. I hope this message comes through. This is my favorite aspect of the exhibit.”
The Nashville-based sculptor can be thanked for some of the most iconic sculptures in the city in addition to the Athena statue. He is also the artist behind the Musica sculpture at the Music Row roundabout, Tennessee's Vietnam Veterans memorial at War Memorial, and the Women's Suffrage memorial in Centennial Park. True to his work, the museum takeover exudes wonder and excellence.
“The Parthenon is Nashville’s oldest museum and beloved by everyone who visits. I look forward to seeing the huge summer crowds viewing and interacting with my sculptures,” says LeQuire. “We have casts of the Parthenon marbles, and I have made 10 torsos that are a direct response to the work of Pheidias. I think I most look forward to seeing them together in the Treasury room.”
Monumental Figures will run through September 21, and Goddess in Progress will be on display through April 19, 2026. (2500 West End Ave., 615-862-8431; nashvilleparthenon.com/exhibits)