Renowned metal sculptor Richard Hunt, celebrated for his near 70-year artistic practice rooted in civil rights, the natural world, and cultural dynamism, died in his Chicago home last Saturday, December 16 at the age of 88. The artist is survived by his daughter Cecilia and his sister Marian. Hunt, whose metallic forms and public monuments are now displayed across the United States, began to pursue his artistic interests at an early age, enrolling in local art classes in Chicago’s South Side as a child. He later completed his undergraduate studies at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) in 1957 with a concentration in sculpture, and was deeply fascinated with the work included in the AIC’s 1953 exhibition Sculpture of the Twentieth Century.
CHICAGO (WLS) — Renowned Chicago artist and sculptor Richard Hunt has died at the age of 88. Hunt may be best known for his “Hero Construction” sculpture, which resides at Chicago’s Art Institute. The artist passed away Saturday at his home, according to a press release announcing his death. For those who have driven through Chicago’s Loop or other parts of the City, you’ve likely seen his work on full display. In his decades-long career, the legendary sculptor has broken barriers through his art. Hunt was born in Chicago on September 12, 1935, and he grew up on the city’s South Side. When he was 19 years old, Hunt attended Emmett Till’s funeral. “Richard was there to see that, and it really marks the beginning of Richard’s preoccupation with freedom; both political freedom and artistic freedom,” said Jon Ott, Hunt’s biographer and vice-chair of the Richard Hunt Legacy Foundation.
The art world mourns the loss of a luminary whose works – bold, expressive, and politically charged, captured the essence of his experiences and the spirit of his time. Hunt’s impact on the art community extends beyond his sculptures, as he fostered an environment of artistic and political freedom, breaking down barriers for African American artists and advocating for greater representation in the art world.
Throughout his career, Hunt’s pieces have been displayed as public monuments across the United States, with his “Hero Construction” sculpture being a landmark at the Art Institute of Chicago. His art not only spoke to the issues of his time, but also inspired countless contemporary artists to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and social commentary.
Richard Hunt’s legacy as a sculptor and advocate for social change will be celebrated for generations to come. His impact on the art world and his dedication to capturing the essence of civil rights and cultural dynamism through his metallic forms will continue to inspire and provoke reflection. Hunt’s legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to spark conversations and inspire change.
As the art world reflects on the life and legacy of Richard Hunt, his profound contributions to the world of sculpture and his tireless advocacy for artistic and political freedom will continue to resonate. His influence will be deeply missed, but his artistic legacy will endure as a beacon of strength, resilience, and social consciousness in the realm of contemporary art.
