In this engaging discussion, master sculptor Sabin Howard, often called America’s Michelangelo, shares his insights on art as an essential connection to humanity and history. He reveals the upcoming National WWI Memorial, A Soldier’s Journey, and emphasizes the importance of accessible beauty that resonates with all people. Sabin reflects on his artistic journey, childhood influences, and the struggles artists face in creating meaningful work. He advocates for a cultural renaissance that honors the past while fostering inclusivity in the arts.
Sabin Howard emphasizes that great art, such as his upcoming National WWI Memorial, should be accessible and resonate with the public.
Howard critiques the modern art world for being overly influenced by politics, urging a return to craftsmanship rooted in truth and humanity.
Looking ahead, Howard's next project aims to capture American exceptionalism through kinetic art, bridging historical narratives with contemporary societal issues.
Deep dives
The Ambitious Art of Saban Howard
Saban Howard, a sculptor often compared to Michelangelo, is creating a monumental bronze memorial titled 'A Soldier's Journey,' commemorating World War I. The piece consists of 38 figures spanning 60 feet and is designed to evoke the heroic journey of soldiers through the war. Howard's hands bear the marks of his craft, with notably large knuckles resulting from the sculpting process, underscoring the physical dedication involved in creating this ambitious work. This project has taken nearly a decade of globalization and artistry to complete, reflecting Howard's unwavering commitment to his vision.
The Intersection of Art and Politics
Howard expresses concern over the current state of art in America, suggesting that it has been co-opted by politics and government influence, losing its sacred nature. He advocates for a return to art that is accessible and meaningful to the public, a sentiment echoing through the ages from the Lascaux cave paintings to contemporary society. This message is particularly resonant as he believes art can unify fractured communities and serve as a historical touchstone. To Howard, great art should stem from truth and humanity, not be shaped by modernist disconnect or elitist agendas.
The Role of Craftsmanship in Art
Emphasizing the necessity of artisanal craftsmanship, Howard argues that true artistry goes beyond conceptualization and involves the skilled labor of making. He believes that the public instinctively recognizes what constitutes art, regardless of formal education, and that this connection should guide artists in their creations. Howard strives to create not only visually captivating pieces but ones that resonate deeply with human experience and emotion. His work aims to celebrate beauty and narrative, allowing anyone who views it to grasp the essence of the stories portrayed.
Addressing Historical Responsibility Through Art
Howard's memorial serves a dual purpose: it is not just an artistic achievement but also a national responsibility to honor those who fought in World War I. He highlights the lack of proper acknowledgment of this war in the United States, where it has often been overshadowed by subsequent conflicts. Howard insists that a monument like this is long overdue, as it seeks to educate the public about significant historical events that have shaped the nation. Through his work, he aims to foster a sense of connection and responsibility to the past, invoking a renewed understanding of history's impact on the present.
The Artistic Vision Going Forward
Looking to the future, Howard is already envisioning his next monumental project, which aims to celebrate American exceptionalism through an arch that tells the story of the country’s history. This new work will include narratives from the nation's inception through key events and cultural milestones, employing kinetic art to draw viewers into the story. Howard envisions an art piece that not only honors American history but also speaks to current societal issues, further bridging the gap between past and present. His commitment to creating art 'for the people' underscores a desire to provoke thought and discussion about national identity and culture.
Master Sculptor Sabin Howard is known as America’s Michelangelo for his work in, and deep knowledge of, Modern Classicism. On September 13, 2024, he will unveil his newest work, the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C., called A Soldier’s Journey. Sabin discusses why he believes that great art can be recognized by everyone and should be for “we the people,” why art is inextricably connected to history, and why art tells us what it means to be human.
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