Movement and metal meet: ‘Thadius’ unveiled at Mulberry

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — A towering, 12-foot metal sculpture, Thadius, was unveiled Tuesday afternoon in a ceremony at the Mulberry.

The 12-foot-tall piece, crafted entirely from stainless sheet metal, was sponsored by Bellamare Development of Ridgeland. Artist Kyle DeLong described the work as intentionally abstract.

“From the broad base rise three tapering arms that curve and twist upward, converging at the top but never quite touching,” DeLong said. “Abstract by design, this piece echoes the movement of the mighty Mississippi River as well as the ever-changing Vicksburg sky. The name comes from a late friend who inspired me to start this art journey.”

Although Thadius marks his first work of this size and scope, DeLong has been refining his craft for the past two years. With 12 years of welding experience, he began blending his technical skills with his passion for art after impressing a friend by welding over one of his sketches.

“It went from making little pieces, like that plaque over there, to three-dimensional pieces — all kinds of stuff — even a six-foot alligator,” DeLong said. “This is the biggest piece I’ve done so far, and I’m hoping it will springboard me into doing even more of these.”

At the ceremony, Mayor George Flaggs Jr. praised the sculpture as a striking addition to the downtown area.

“This sculpture captures a moment of the river and the ever-changing sky over Vicksburg,” Flaggs said. “It is a beautiful addition, not just to this property, but to the city’s growing story of art, culture, and innovation.”

Thadius stands at the intersection of Mulberry and Clay streets on the Mulberry property.