Remembering Sculptor Richard Hunt - A Discussion With Joanna Lindell, Director and Curator of the Thrivent Art Collection at Thrivent

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

"Rising" by Richard Hunt, located in front of Thrivent at 600 Portland Avenue S

Richard HuntWe should take a moment to remember and honor sculptor Richard Hunt. He died December 16, 2023 and from his obituary we learn that “he was one of the most important sculptors this nation has produced. His prolific art career spanned seven decades. Hunt's metal sculpture is notable for its widespread presence in museum collections and many public monuments installed across the U.S. Despite challenges for African-American artists during his lifetime, Hunt held over 150 solo exhibitions and is represented in more than 100 public museums across the globe. Hunt made the largest contribution to public art in the United States, with more than 160 public sculpture commissions gracing prominent locations in 24 states and Washington, D.C.”

How is he remembered by the art world?

• "For nearly five decades, Hunt ranked among the foremost American sculptors." Randall Griffey, Head Curator, Smithsonian American Art Museum

• "Hunt earned all of this early acclaim by making great art." Museum of Modern Art Magazine Remembering Richard Hunt (1935–2023) 

• "Hunt’s stature and impact cannot be overstated." Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture 

• “Hunt was one of the most important figures in art history." A tribute to Richard Hunt NPR - WBEZ Chicago 

      • "Hunt’s early career paralleled the rise of the modern civil rights movement." Washington Post

How is Richard Hunt connected to Minneapolis? Most recently, his sculpture Rising was awarded Best Public Art Award by the Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District in 2023. We spoke to Joanna Lindell, director and curator of the Thrivent Art Collection at Thrivent to learn more about the sculpture.

Joanna LindellQ:  Why did Thrivent commission the sculpture Rising from Richard Hunt? 

A:  Thrivent has a longstanding commitment to supporting the arts, culture and the community. We commissioned the sculpture because Hunt and his expressive work fit our company culture of staying curious and welcoming diverse perspectives. Rising is a fitting representation of who we are. Grounded in a metal and stone base, the sculpture is a nod to our history as a financial services company that has served clients for more than a century. Looking up and outward, it takes on new energy with a spirit of ascension, mirroring our ongoing transformation as a diversified financial services organization ready to serve generations to come.

Q:  Was Mr. Hunt able to attend the unveiling?

A:  Yes, Hunt traveled from Chicago to Minneapolis to attend the installation and unveiling of Rising. Hosting Hunt at our headquarters was a truly spectacular experience as we unveiled Minnesota’s first permanent public installation by the iconic artist. As I reflect on his recent passing, he left the world with a remarkable legacy and impact. I could not be more grateful to have partnered with him on this commission and to have known him as a friend and colleague. Through Rising, Hunt’s spirit and talent are present in our wonderful city.

Q:  Were you pleasantly surprised when Rising was awarded the Best Public Art 2023 by the Downtown Improvement District (DID)?

A:  While I was delighted with Rising being recognized with this award, I was not surprised given Hunt’s esteemed reputation. Like much of downtown Minneapolis in 2020 and 2021, the plaza outside Thrivent’s Corporate Center sat largely empty. This changed for us following the installation of Rising. The sculpture’s placement welcomes interaction with our employees and the surrounding neighborhood. With its curving forms more than 20 feet in the air and an elevated base, people are drawn to sitting beneath and engaging with the piece. Sparking this kind of connection is something Hunt was always deeply passionate about, and this award is a reflection of the sculpture’s unique representation of the value in embracing different perspectives that collectively make us stronger as a community.

Do yourself a favor and go to 600 Portland Avenue, Thrivent headquarters, and check out the magnificent sculpture. Think about how Rising invigorates the public space. Take a friend with you and remember the legacy of Richard Hunt.