By Hannah Gill

The University of Louisville rolled out the red carpet last week for a Hart-felt welcome of the campus’ newest art exhibit “Frederick Hart: Giving Form to Spirit.”

Music, food, dance and over 100 sculptures were present for this moon-lit reception, honoring the life work of American artist Hart.

“This is the first exhibition of this size and prestige ever to come to U of L,” said President Dr. James R. Ramsey, as he kicked off the night with a reception in the Miller IT Center last Wednesday.

The event featured musical performances by singer Edith Davis Tidwell and pianist Stefania de Kenessey, as well as a routine preformed by dancers of the Louisville Ballet, all of which were inspired by the work of Hart.

The reception was followed by a showcase of Hart’s sculptures in the Hite Art Institute and in Grawemeyer Hall, where artistic patrons, faculty members and city leaders gathered to admire the artist’s work.

Hart, who passed away in 1999, is most well-known for the piece he created for the National Cathedral in Washington D.C., “Ex Nihilo,” as well as his “Three Soldiers” sculpture at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. However, this exhibit powerfully shows how classical and multifaceted his work really is.

Hart’s pieces, which have been rightly compared to the likes of Michelangelo and Rodin, consist mostly of human sculptures in their most raw and perfect form. Giving expression to his figures in both face and body, there is meaning yet mystery shining in all of his pieces.

Lindy Hart, widow of the famed artist, was present to welcome her husband’s collection to Louisville. Seen as a muse in much of Hart’s work, Lindy Hart said of her inspiration to her husband, “Rick used to say that he sculpted me before he met me. I’m happy to have been such an inspiration.”

Mayor Jerry Abramson was also present with his wife Madeline to welcome this exhibit to Louisville. In reference to the significance of having such a celebrated exhibit come to Louisville, Abramson said.

“It showcases the city of Louisville as both an arts and cultural center of the U.S., and it shows how a great university and a great city can work together for the greater good of the community.”

This exhibit is set to last from now through Nov. 17, showcasing pieces in downtown Louisville, as well as on campus at Ekstrom Library, the Hite Art Institute, Grawemeyer Hall and the Cressman Center.

It seems excitement is widespread for “Frederick Hart: Giving Form to Spirit.” Just in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of U of L’s School of Arts and Sciences and the 75th anniversary of the School of Music, many are hoping this exhibit will spread an appreciation for art and culture on campus. At the opening of the exhibit, Ramsey expressed his hopes that Hart’s work will “provide the opportunity for dialogue, discussion and debate.”

As many faculty feel this is an excellent opportunity to experience the work of a true artistic genius, take the advice of Hart, who said, “If art is to flourish in the 21st century… it should be a majestic presence in everyday life just as it was in the past.”