Kim Larsen Helped Sculptor of Latest WWI Monument in DC Protect Artistic Vision

09.12.2024

Stinson LLP Partner Kim Larsen served as legal counsel to Sculptor Sabin Howard throughout the creation and installation of "A Soldier's Journey," a first-of-its-kind World War I monument in Washington, DC.

With funding from the World War I Centennial Commission and the National Park Service, Howard created the 58-foot-long high-relief sculpture depicting the American everyman experience in the Great War. Larsen drew on his experience in contracts and intellectual property to negotiate the terms and conditions so Howard's rights as an artist were protected.

"Even though Kim didn't pick up a tool and sculpt in the studio, he has been a partner in creating this memorial," Howard said. "Law firms like Stinson are integral to empowering an artist to take their vision from ephemeral idea to something that can be shared with the rest of society."

Howard spent four and a half years sculpting in his Englewood, New Jersey, studio before the finished clay figures were shipped to a foundry in Stroud, England, to be cast. Larsen joined Howard in Stroud for the preliminary reveal in June.

"I think Sabin's sculpture will be seen as a true masterpiece, one of the best national monuments from a sculptural perspective," Larsen said. "I look forward to 'A Soldier's Journey' taking its rightful place among the most treasured public art works in our country."

Larsen and Howard plan to continue working together toward what the sculptor is calling "an American cultural revolution" in art.

"Beauty, excellence and artistic skill matter," Howard said. "And attorneys like Kim can help safeguard the works of creatives so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come."

Larsen has over three decades of experience advising businesses on a range of complex corporate matters, including domestic and international mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, IPOs and commercial transactions. He is a trusted adviser to businesses of all sizes, including emerging companies and small and medium-sized corporations. Larsen also has experience representing prominent creative talents, safeguarding their intellectual property and navigating the legal challenges they face.

Howard's "A Soldier's Journey" monument will be unveiled on Sept. 13, 2024, in Washington, DC, inside the former Pershing Park. The candle-lit illumination ceremony will honor the service of all veterans.