Leadership by Mike Elwell sits quietly on the grounds near the Douglas County Courthouse, and it's one of those pieces that you might not fully appreciate until you stop and look at it for a moment. The bronze shows a small, simplified child wrapped in a sweeping cloak, the kind of abstract shape that reads more like a symbol than a portrait. Once you see it, the theme clicks. It's "leadership" as protection, guidance, and responsibility rather than authority for its own sake.
It's been here since 1987, case in bronze and set on a simple concrete base, and it fits the courthouse grounds well. It's not a loud sculpture or one that demands attention, but it's thoughtful, well-made and worth pausing for if you're already exploring downtown Lawrence.
[Review 806 of 2026 - 141 in Kansas - 25986 overall] read more