Is A Russian-Trained, Chinese Sculptor The Best Choice To Create The MLK Jr. Memorial?

On August 28, 2011, the dedication of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's Memorial will take place on the Mall in Washington, DC.  Yes, that date has significance,  as Dr. King delivered his famous "Dream Speech" on August 28, 1963. The four-acre site is in the final stages of preparation and DC is making plans to handle crowds of up to 500,000.

Lei Yixin (seen above, working on a model) is the artist selected by the foundation to sculpt the granite likeness of MLK Jr. and Lei's work has the approval of at least two of Dr. King's children. But not everyone is happy about the fact that a Chinese sculptor was selected to craft the image of this American icon. Earlier today on MSNBC, artist Ed Dwight, one of the loudest of the unhappy voices was given considerable TV time to vent his spleen.

After watching the interview, it should come as no surprise that Mr. Dwight expected to be the one selected to create the final work of art. He was not, and his displeasure just might be affecting his objectivity.