Obituary – Cause of Death : Chicago-born African-American abstract sculptor Richard Hunt dies at 88

Chicago-born Richard Hunt, one of the foremost African-American abstract sculptors and artists of public sculpture in the twentieth century, has passed away at the age of 88. Hunt’s death has left a void in the art world as he was known for his groundbreaking work and contributions to the field of sculpture.

Richard Hunt was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1935. He showed an early interest in art and pursued his passion by attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. It was during his time at the institute that Hunt began to explore abstract sculpting, a style that would become his signature. His unique approach to sculpture combined elements of abstraction, modernism, and African art traditions.

Throughout his career, Richard Hunt created numerous public sculptures that can be found in cities across the United States. His works often featured bold, geometric shapes and were known for their ability to engage with the surrounding environment. Hunt’s sculptures were not just objects to be admired; they were meant to be experienced, interacted with, and enjoyed by the public.

Hunt’s work can be seen in prominent locations such as the Chicago Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza, the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Dallas, Texas, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Atlanta, Georgia. These sculptures, along with many others, have become iconic landmarks and symbols of the communities they inhabit.

In addition to his public sculptures, Richard Hunt also had a successful career as a studio artist. He created smaller-scale sculptures that were exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. His work was widely praised for its technical mastery and artistic vision.

Hunt’s artistic contributions were not limited to his own sculptures. He was also a dedicated advocate for the arts and played an active role in promoting art education and supporting emerging artists. Hunt served on various boards and committees, including the National Endowment for the Arts, and was recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his lifetime.

While the cause of Richard Hunt’s death is currently unknown, his passing is a significant loss for the art world. His influence and impact on the field of sculpture cannot be overstated. Hunt’s work challenged traditional notions of sculpture and opened doors for future generations of artists to explore new possibilities.

Richard Hunt’s legacy will continue to live on through his sculptures, which will be cherished and admired for years to come. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to the arts have left an indelible mark on the world of sculpture. Hunt’s contributions will be remembered and celebrated as his work continues to inspire and captivate audiences.

In conclusion, Richard Hunt’s death marks the end of an era for the art world. His groundbreaking sculptures and dedication to the arts have left an enduring legacy. While the cause of his death remains unknown, his impact on the field of sculpture will be remembered for generations to come. Richard Hunt’s contributions will continue to inspire and influence artists around the world, ensuring that his legacy lives on..

Chicago-born Richard Hunt, one of the foremost African-American abstract sculptor and artist of public sculpture of the twentieth century has died. He was 88. pic.twitter.com/YzFeNZQ9Gt

— MAS Context (@MASContext) December 16, 2023

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@MASContext said Chicago-born Richard Hunt, one of the foremost African-American abstract sculptor and artist of public sculpture of the twentieth century has died. He was 88. richardhuntsculptor.com/obituary