Explore the Creative World of Frederick Hart
Discover the artistry, vision, and creative process of one of America's most celebrated sculptors. The Frederick Hart Studio Museum invites visitors to explore a remarkable collection of original models, sculptures, tools, and personal artifacts that illuminate the life and work of Frederick Hart, creator of the iconic Creation Sculptures at the Washington National Cathedral. Through these galleries, guests get a rare behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Hart's masterpieces and the studio environment where inspiration became enduring works of art.
Note: The Creation Sculptures for Washington National Cathedral, Indiana limestone, (1977-1984) are the tympana Creation of Day, Ex Nihilo, Creation of Night and the three trumeau figures of Saint Peter, Adam, and Saint Paul. The bronze edition of Figures and Fragments from the Creation Sculptures comprise the Washington National Cathedral Collection (2002-2007). The plaster models are depicted in the photos below.
Plaster models for Ex Nihilo: Fragment No. 2 and Figure No. 7 lead to Hart’s office desk. The items placed on the desk by Hart’s wife, Lindy Hart and two sons, Lain and Alexander Hart, are items typically found there on any given day. A photograph of Hart and his mentor Roger Morigi has pride of place on the wall above the desk. Just to the right is the plaster model of Saint Peter, one the three trumeau figures for Washington National Cathedra
Plaster model for Ex Nihilo Figure No. 6 and the plaster models for Celebration.
On display are many prototypes of Hart’s ground-breaking cast clear acrylic works. Some pieces feature Hart’s notations in indelible marker denoting changes to be made in composition or in cuts for faceting. Also on display are plaster models for acrylic prototypes offering a unique window into the complete acrylic process including the patented embedment technique.
Belmont University is the sole repository of this one-of-a-kind collection from the working studio of Frederick Hart, American master sculptor.
Christ Rising, bronze,1978, atrium Lila D. Bunch Library.
The Frederick Hart Studio Museum is the faithful re-creation of the studio Hart built in 1988 at Chesley, the family farm in Hume, Virginia. Sculpting tools, original clay, molds, plasters, and inspirational memorabilia are pulled together to bring to life the creative process of one of America’s preeminent sculptors of the last century and to ensure that his legacy continues to shape the future of art.
Plaster models for Ex Nihilo figures and fragments are displayed throughout the museum. Also pictured is the plaster model of Adam, one of the trumeau figures.
Inspired by music Hart listened to an eclectic collection of tapes and CDs which have been saved and serve as a soundtrack enhancing the immersive quality of the museum experience.
Plaster model for Ex Nihilo, Working Model.
Plaster model, Daughters of Odessa, foreground. Plaster models for Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the background.
Plaster model for the James Earl Carter Presidential Statue, bronze, Georgia State Capitol, Atlanta, Georgia,1994 (foreground).