Krasl Art Center Executive Director and Chief Curator Tami Fauver shared a “very special” announcement this afternoon. World-renowned artist Richard Hunt is making a significant gift to the center — his studio!
According to the Krasl announcement, artist Richard Hunt has gifted his satellite studio at 258 Territorial Road in Benton Harbor to the Krasl Art Center and shared his desire “to see the site remain an art space and grow into an active community resource.”
Born in Chicago in 1935, Hunt has arguably made the largest contribution to public art in the United States — over 150 public sculpture commissions in prominent locations in 24 states and Washington, D.C.
From Krasl’s announcement:
In 1995, artist Richard Hunt opened a satellite studio in Benton Harbor, Michigan. In the ensuing 24 years, many of us have enjoyed proximity to this world-renowned sculptor. His artwork is part of our daily lives, prominently displayed throughout Benton Harbor and St. Joseph – at the local hospital, along the pier at Silver Beach, and on Krasl Art Center’s grounds.
It is with deep gratitude that I share today, Mr. Hunt has gifted his satellite studio at 258 Territorial Road in Benton Harbor to Krasl Art Center. Mr. Hunt has shared his desire is to see the site remain an art space and grow into an active community resource.
Krasl Art Center thanks Mr. Hunt for this honor and opportunity. His legacy and the legacy of the arts in Benton Harbor and St. Joseph is of critical importance.
We look forward to planning and preparing for this gift over the next two years as Mr. Hunt and his studio consolidate operations to Chicago.
A formal announcement and celebration event is planned for August 9.