New Figures Exhibits Appearances TV Schedules

 

New Historical Figures
2006

For years I have wanted to do something to honor the history of black Americans.
My intentions were impeded during my touring years by booking agents who strongly suggested that I stick to history with which my invariably all-white audiences would identify.

Nowadays Americans generally have a more sophisticated view. VMHA docent Patricia Trude has spoken with me on several occasions regarding my doing something in the area of black history. Mrs. Trude suggested that I look into the story of Mme. Walker (1867-1919). Indeed,

Mme. Walker's history proved fascinating. Although little known today, she is an outstanding example of the American mythology - if you work hard and never give up, you will achieve success. Mme. Walker went from house servant to becoming the first millionaire black woman and a major figure in black American affairs. All of her successes came before the civil rights movement or the enfranchisement of women. Her story illustrates the remarkable qualities of this segment of our population.

 

Art collectors come in all shapes, sizes and interests. Recently two collectors have commissioned a series of generic Figures, which we normally refuse to do. However, their collection commemorates history's famous "foot soldiers."

The Zulu Warrior is the latest addition to their collection. During the mid-1800's, Zulu fighters gained a well-earned reputation as fearless and formidable foes of England's imperial ambitions in South Africa. In this Figure we attempted to capture their grace and ferocity, whether they were hunting lion or engaging redcoats in mortal combat.

Soon this Zulu Warrior will enter the private collection in New York, joining a Roman foot soldier, a Roman centurion, a Greek Hoplite, an Aztec Warrior and a Swiss Landsknecht. Another "grunt" is in the works.

 

Most artists rarely rework their pieces after completion. To the contrary, I enjoy restoring and updating all the Historical Figures, regardless of their age. A recent turn of events is testing that interest and my stamina.

Last year, we located thirty some odd Figures of a collection acquired by Monsanto some forty years ago. After a museum fire at their St. Louis office, the Figures were lost, only to be saved by the Hernandez family. We recently tracked the Figures to Spokane, where the current owners are making a valiant effort to prevent further deterioration.

We have begun a cooperative program with the owners to restore the Figures. The original condition of the Figures will be restored; however, we will not attempt to upgrade the Figures with the refinements developed over the last forty years. To date, we have updated four of the Figures - Cleopatra, Tutankhamen, Salome and the Queen of Sheba. As funds become available, we hope to restore the rest of the group.

 

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