4 am, November 22nd, the morning of the unveiling of the JFK 50th Memorial in Dallas. The first time seeing my work in place. Touching the etched typography by moonlight: a moment I’ll always carry with me.
A typographic tribute: making JFK’s words eternal.
Context
Fifty years to the day after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, the City of Dallas revealed a permanent tribute at Dealey Plaza to honor his vision, leadership, and enduring legacy. This project wasn’t just another graphic design job for me. It was an honor to be chosen among artists and designers worldwide, because of my love for typography and deep reverence for what it can do for such a solemn and sincere commemoration.
What I did
Collaborated with the City of Dallas and local philanthropists to bring the memorial vision to life
Selected and inscribed Kennedy’s unspoken words from his final planned speech
Researched typographic traditions to create a historically grounded yet timeless tribute
Directed material selection, design iterations, and full-scale legibility testing at Dealey Plaza
Oversaw fabrication and installation to balance historical reverence with modern clarity
The Results
The installation was unveiled on Commemoration Day, November 22, 2013, and the reveal was covered by news around the world. The final work presents Kennedy’s words in a simple, powerful, purposeful form. Positioned at the north pergola overlooking the Grassy Knoll, the piece invites quiet reflection while ensuring that Kennedy’s voice and ideals remain present in the cityscape for generations to come.
