CHICAGO - Richard Hunt, a groundbreaking artist from Chicago who achieved numerous milestones in his career, including being the first Black sculptor to receive a solo retrospective at New York City's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), has died at the age of 88. The news of his passing was confirmed through a statement posted on his website, although no cause of death was specified.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over 70 years, Hunt created more than 160 commissioned works of public art that can be found across the nation, including libraries and college campuses. Notably, his 35-foot high stainless steel sculpture titled "Flight Forms" graces Midway International Airport in Chicago. In 2021, a monument honoring the late civil rights icon Ida B. Wells, featuring bronze columns, was dedicated in the city's Bronzeville neighborhood.

Hunt's artistic contributions extend far beyond Chicago's borders. Over 100 of his masterpieces are proudly displayed in museums worldwide. Among them is the breathtaking 1,500-pound bronze monument called "Swing Low," currently exhibited at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., serving as a tribute to the spiritual song of the same name. The sculpture is suspended from the ceiling on the first floor, captivating visitors with its ethereal beauty.

Born and raised on Chicago's South Side, Hunt's artistic journey was deeply influenced by a formative experience. At the age of 19, he attended the open-casket funeral of Emmett Till, a Black teenager who was tragically lynched. This powerful encounter shaped Hunt's artistic vision and ignited a lifelong commitment to civil rights. Notably, Hunt recently completed a piece titled "Hero Ascending" to commemorate Till, which is expected to be installed at Till's childhood home in Chicago next year.

Hunt received his artistic education at the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago, which laid the foundation for his remarkable career. In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him to the National Council on the Arts, recognizing his immense talent and contributions to the arts. Three years later, Hunt created history once again by becoming the first Black sculptor to have a solo retrospective exhibit at MoMA.

Continuing his artistic legacy, one of Hunt's commissioned works titled "Book Bird" will be displayed outside an upcoming Chicago Public Library branch at the Obama Presidential Center. The sculpture, depicting a bird taking flight from a book, is set to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.

In response to Hunt's passing, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences and acknowledged the significant impact the artist had on the city and beyond. Former President Barack Obama, a fellow Chicagoan, hailed Hunt as one of the finest artists to emerge from the city, praising his talent and artistic contributions.

While a private funeral service is planned in Chicago, a public celebration of Richard Hunt's life and art will be held next year, providing an opportunity for admirers and art enthusiasts to pay tribute to this extraordinary artist whose legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.