Ellison's sculptures can be found in many public spaces around the country.

The Mandela sculpture elements will be placed on each side of Mandela Parkway, as portals to the new community when the apartments are finished.

Ellison's sculptures feature quotes by Nelson Mandela embedded in the lower part of the artwork, on top of which sprout stylized seed pods.

The model will be on display at the West Oakland Senior Center, 1724 Adeline St., 6:30 to 8 p.m., and the artist will be available to answer questions and respond to comments.