"He Seeks the Soul in Metal"

Hunt emerged as one of the most renowned sculptors of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art through a series of achievements. In 1962, he was the recipient of the prestigious John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Fellowship, a momentous honor that allowed him to transition from his teaching career to focus exclusively on sculpting.

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That same year, he gained recognition as one of LIFE magazine's "Red Hot Hundred," a list that showcased young leaders who were making significant impacts in their fields. By 1966, Hunt had earned the distinction of being declared the "Master of Metal" in the influential publication Great Negroes Past and Present, underscoring his mastery of the medium.

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Hunt's recognition continued to grow with features in notable publications such as Ebony, which illustrated his quest to uncover the "Soul" in metal in 1969, and a special issue of Time magazine in April 1970 dedicated to Black America.

National Recognition

Hunt's influence extended into the political realm when, in 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him to a six-year term on the National Council on the Arts. At just 33 years old, he became the first African American visual artist to serve on the council, filling the seat previously held by sculptor David Smith after his untimely death.

In 1981, Hunt achieved yet another milestone when he was appointed the youngest and only African American juror for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial design competition, a role that would ultimately lead to the selection of Maya Lin's minimalist design.

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Hunt's works also found a place at the White House Garden, where he exhibited sculptures on multiple occasions from 1994 through 1999, part of an initiative spearheaded by Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Furthermore, in 1998, he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters, affirming his status among America's artistic elite.

Honors and Recognition

Hunt's lifetime of contributions culminated with prestigious accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Sculpture Center in 2009 and the Legends & Legacy Award presented at the Art Institute of Chicago in 2022.

Through his groundbreaking work and numerous honors, Hunt not only advanced the field of sculpture but also became a pioneering figure for African American artists, achieving more than any other American sculptor during his lifetime.