Six artists have been selected as finalists to design a public monument honoring jazz singer Billie Holiday in Queens, New York, outside the Jamaica Performing Arts Center. The finalists—La Vaughn Belle, Nikesha Breeze, Nekisha Durrett, Tanda Francis, Thomas J. Price, and Tavares Strachan—submitted proposals after an open call in late 2025, site visits, and discussions with Holiday scholars and family. The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs released the designs on May 19 for public feedback through the end of May, with a final selection expected later this year. Proposals range from abstract silhouettes and bronze beans to more representational figures, reflecting Holiday's legacy and her connection to Queens.
This monument matters because it commemorates Billie Holiday's deep ties to Queens, where she lived and performed, and underscores the borough's cultural history. Funded by New York City's Percent for Art program, the project highlights the ongoing role of public art in honoring influential figures from marginalized communities. The selection process, involving community input and artist engagement with Holiday's family and scholars, sets a precedent for inclusive memorialization. The monument will serve as a lasting cultural landmark, connecting residents and visitors to Holiday's enduring influence on music and civil rights.