Chattanooga’s vibrant culture is enriched by artists like Isaac Duncan III, whose large-scale sculptures bring stories of heritage, resilience, and creativity to life. Raised in Brooklyn, New York, and of Caribbean descent, Duncan’s artistic journey led him from the University of Notre Dame to the University of Kentucky, blending formal education with hands-on experience. As an educator and artist-in-residence, he has shaped the local and national art scenes.
Duncan refined his craft working alongside renowned sculptor John Henry before establishing Duncan Sculpture & Services in Chattanooga in 2008. His expertise has been sought by major artists, and his sculptures are featured in collections across the U.S. and Canada, including Georgia Tech, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and Erlanger Children’s Hospital. His contributions to public art and leadership in the Mid-South Sculpture Alliance have made him a key figure in Chattanooga’s creative community.
If you’re visiting Chattanooga, take the time to explore Duncan’s work. Like his piece, Matriarch which can be found in the Southside neighborhood highlighted in the Experience Art Map below, or the Pan Fam outside of Lodge Museum of Cast Iron—Ferrous, Panelopie, and Lucky—who are made up of around 150 pieces of cast iron! Duncan’s sculptures, found in both public spaces and private collections, highlight the city’s thriving cultural landscape and Chattanooga’s commitment to contemporary art.
Culture, Heritage and Arts Spotlight
The CHA Spotlight is an up-close and personal look at Chattanooga’s rich Culture, Heritage and Arts scene and the people that make it all possible. Check back often for the latest about Chattanooga’s festivals and events, local creators, public art, performances, musicians, rich history and more. We look forward to you visiting soon and enjoying Chattanooga’s Culture Heritage and Arts experiences that you will not find anywhere else.
See them all at visitchattanooga.com/spotlight.
