Atlanta Artist Proposes Unusual Addition to Stone Mountain Carving

In the aftermath the NAACP suggesting the removal of the carving of Confederate Generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson and Confederate President Jefferson Davis from the side of Stone Mountain, just east of Atlanta, a Georgia-based artist has created a petition calling for a different solution.

Started by artist Mack Williams, it’s addressed to Georgia’s state house, state senate and Gov. Nathan Deal.

The goal?

To have Outkast’s Big Boi and Andre 3000, Atlanta’s most beloved hip-hop duo, carved alongside Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.

As Williams’ petition puts it:

I believe it’s important to recognize the history and heritage of all Georgians. However, the carving of Davis, Lee, and Jackson on the side of Stone Mountain only represents a small, regrettable time in the history of the Peach State. It’s high time we added a bit more of our history and culture to this monument.

By no means do we wish to erase or destroy the current carving, which, regardless of its context, is an impressive and historic work of art. We simply wish to add new carvings, of Atlanta hip-hop duo Outkast, to the mountainside. There’s plenty of room.

[…]

Outkast are two of the greatest Georgians in the history of our state. It’s about time the Empire State of the South paid proper tribute to them, while also improving a great monument and tourist attraction.

As of Thursday morning, the petition has nearly 3,000 signers, and, while it’s unlikely that any changes will take place to the side of the popular tourist attraction, the idea has one influential backer. At least one half of Outkast has endorsed Williams’ effort to get up, get out and get something done. On Wednesday afternoon, Big Boi retweeted a link to a story about the petition — with a “thumbs up” emoji tacked on.