LGBTQ Sculptors

The arts hold a special place in the LGBTQ community. They allow the creativity of the individual to be expressed regardless of the socio-normative constraints imposed by society. The art of sculpting is no exception.

The LGBTQ community has been an active and notable participant in this particular artistic field for many generations. Early LGBTQ classical sculptors include Buonarroti Michelangelo (commonly known simply as Michelangelo) and Antonio Canova, but they have been followed by others such as Harriet Hosmer (who is credited with opening the contemporary field to women) and Robert Pruitt (notable for his statue of fellow artist Andy Warhol). There have been few barriers to entry within the profession, and hence there are an equal number of notable women and men throughout its history. Similarly, there is little in the way of cultural, racial, or geographical restriction.

It is often considered ironic that the art of sculptor has often had to deal with a society exhibiting blatant homophobia at the same time it appreciated and admired muscular male bodies. This contradiction often forced the artist to remain in the closet, while at the same time as creating and exhibiting a creative output that directly reflected their sexual orientation.

When one considers the art of sculpting, it usually takes the form of statuary or busts. However, many LGBTQ sculptors are noted for their elaborate work in creating civic constructions (such as fountains and adornments to bridges) and domestic accoutrements (such as elaborate bowls or candlesticks in silver and bronze).

We have identified LGBTQ sculptors hailing from Germany, France, Italy, Canada, Australia, the United States, Israel, Denmark, Russia, India, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Great Britain. Most of these individuals were, or are, highly regarded artists and were, or are, acknowledged as such during their lifetimes by receiving national recognitions. They each have fascinating biographies attached to them.

Australia