American Heritage Monuments is a public art program that commissions and installs bronze historical sculptures in communities across the United States. Produced in collaboration with advisory board member Steven Barber — an acclaimed documentary filmmaker and producer — the program partners with leading American sculptors such as George and Mark Lundeen, whose monumental bronze works are installed at the Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Capitol, and in public squares across the country. Together they transform public spaces into open-air classrooms of American history.
Each monument is custom-designed to honor significant historical figures, events, and cultural milestones specific to the community where it is placed. From civil rights leaders to pioneering scientists, from military heroes to cultural icons, the sculptures serve as permanent tributes that educate, inspire, and unite communities.
About Steven Barber
Steven Barber is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and producer whose work has been recognized at major festivals. He proposed and produced The Eagle Has Landed — the bronze monument at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex commemorating the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 — and is the driving force behind American Heritage Monuments as a program of producing, financing, and shepherding bronze public monuments into existence in communities across the United States.
About the sculptors — George and Mark Lundeen
George Lundeen (b. 1948, Holdrege, Nebraska) and his brother Mark Lundeen are among America's most celebrated bronze sculptors. George studied at Hastings College, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze before establishing his studio in Loveland, Colorado. Together with collaborator Joey Bainer, the Lundeens sculpted The Eagle Has Landed, unveiled at Kennedy Space Center on July 12, 2019. Their monumental works honoring American astronauts, presidents, athletes, and pioneers stand in dozens of cities nationwide.
Program Goals
To install historically significant bronze monuments in underserved communities that lack public art. To create educational programming around each installation, including curriculum materials for local schools. To engage local historians, artists, and community leaders in the creative process, ensuring each monument reflects authentic local heritage.
How It Works
Communities or organizations can propose historical figures or events for commemoration. Steven Barber and the foundation team research the subject, secure commissioned sculptors of the calibre of George and Mark Lundeen, and develop designs in collaboration with local stakeholders. The foundation fundraises through grants and sponsorships to cover fabrication and installation costs, ensuring the monuments are gifted to the community at no charge.