Frederick Hart: Changing Tides

The art of America’s most renowned and beloved sculptors of the 20^th century, Frederick Hart, will be on display at the Contessa Gallery at Legacy Village in this major exhibition.

Michael Novak wrote: “The work of Frederick Hart is changing the world of art,” vindicating the artist’s strong belief that with the new century would come changing tides in the style, form, and direction of the arts.  His sculpture is at once traditional in its adherence to the human figure, radical in its sensuality, and innovative in its materials.  

No sculptor since Auguste Rodin has been so embraced by the public. Hart’s sculptures have been among the most successfully editioned in the past century. Twice Frederick Hart had the opportunity to produce works for Pope John Paul II. He was awarded posthumously the National Medal of Arts, the highest award given to artists by the government, for the important body of work – including the Washington National Cathedral “Creation Sculptures” and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s “Three Soldiers”, which heralded a new age for contemporary public art.  

Frederick Hart confounded and intrigued those who knew him in much the same way as a military general who writes poetry might. His life was richly textured, layered with colorful characters, episodes and causes, and these formed a bold pattern. The Contessa Gallery offers collectors and fans an exciting and unique opportunity to meet Lindy Lain Hart, the widow of the artist and get an idea of the kind of person he was.  Lindy will be present for the opening receptions and give a lecture on the art of Frederick Hart.  

Don’t miss a chance to witness the unveiling of several new bronze sculptures by Hart, which will take place during the opening nights: “Truth and Beauty”, “Recumbent Figure”, “Reclining Figure”, “Portrait of the Artist’s Wife”. Also on display will be many of his famous bronze and clear acrylic resin sculptures (the medium pioneered by Frederick Hart).