Show-Me State Times

Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., soon to step down as president of Saint Louis University, and First Lady Fran Pestello, Ph.D., have donated a sculpture titled "Land, Labor, Legacy" to the university. The unveiling event took place at the Pius XII Memorial Library with the piece crafted by Ohio artists Kyle and Kelly Phelps.

“The work they created is absolutely beautiful,” remarked Fran Pestello during the reception.

Rochelle Smith, vice president of the Division of Diversity and Innovative Community Engagement, highlighted the historical significance behind the sculpture: “This sculpture is more than bronze and form. It represents stories — those of the Osage Nation and those of enslaved peoples who toiled on this land." She added that these histories have often been neglected.

The sculpture, standing about 20 inches tall, depicts four adult figures and a child, symbolizing enslaved individuals of African descent and members of the Osage Nation. Fred P. Pestello expressed the role of art in fostering reflection and understanding: “We know the importance of art to inspire, to provoke, to deepen understanding. This work will do that and more. Art is powerful."

"Land, Labor, Legacy" is now exhibited on the library's second floor, accompanied by the temporary Illuminating Histories exhibit. This display aims to reveal untold stories associated with Saint Louis University, shedding light on the university's interconnected past with slavery and Native American land.

Smith remarked on the sculpture's deeper intentions, signifying the Pestellos' dedication to truth, a key part of SLU's Jesuit mission: “This sculpture is one meaningful contribution toward that effort. It invites us to see, to learn, and to reflect.”

The artists, Kyle and Kelly Phelps, who frequently highlight overlooked narratives in American history, have their work tied to personal roots in New Castle, Indiana. Throughout their career, their work has achieved broad exposure in numerous exhibitions and is part of several art collections, including the NAACP National Headquarters.

Fred Pestello shared his respect for the Phelps brothers: “When we saw their portfolio, we saw that these two men do extraordinary work that reflected the mission of that institution.” Art creation for "Land, Labor, Legacy" began in 2021, and the Pestellos were eager to collaborate with the brothers, finding them to be “uniquely talented artists.”

This collaboration further solidifies a long-standing friendship that began over two decades ago when Dr. Pestello hired the Phelps brothers to teach at the University of Dayton. Their shared history and mutual appreciation have enriched this artistic endeavor.

Kelly Phelps remarked about the sculpture, “It’s about history and it’s about American history and being true to that. To tell a full story, not just parts of it, is important.”

The sculpture stands as a poignant testament to past narratives and a prompt for ongoing reflection and dialogue.