In a world where artists often toil in obscurity, Susan Wagner's story is a testament to the power of passion and the enduring impact of art. Her creations, statues of legendary sports figures, stand as silent sentinels, immortalizing moments in time and the spirits of those they depict. Yet, few know the name of the artist behind these masterpieces.
The Unsung Sculptor
Susan Wagner, a Pittsburgh-based artist, has crafted statues of iconic figures like Bill Mazeroski, Roberto Clemente, and Willie Stargell, among others. These statues, standing tall at PNC Park and other iconic locations, capture the essence of these sports legends. But here's where it gets intriguing: Wagner's identity remains largely unknown to the public, even as her work inspires and moves fans.
Last weekend, as fans gathered to pay tribute to the late Bill Mazeroski, Wagner observed from a distance. She watched as people left flowers and mementos at the statue's base, a testament to the impact her work has had on the community. But few realized that the sculptor herself was among them.
A Humble Artist, an Unlikely Journey
Wagner's path to becoming a sculptor of sports legends is as unique as it gets. Growing up in a working-class household in Penn Hills, sports were not a priority. Her mother's love for Roberto Clemente was an exception, a passion that left a mark on young Susan.
"I remember my mom, sitting in the living room, watching baseball on TV. When Clemente appeared on screen, she'd exclaim, 'There he is!' She was smitten," Wagner recalls.
This early exposure to Clemente's charisma and talent would later influence Wagner's artistic journey. Despite having little interest in sports herself, she found her calling in sculpting, a medium that allowed her to capture the spirit of individuals beyond their physical likeness.
Capturing the Spirit
Wagner's approach to sculpting is unique. She aims to capture the essence, the spirit, of her subjects. It's not about replicating physical features; it's about imbuing her creations with the joy, modesty, and steel-like determination of the individuals they represent.
"I don't sculpt the game; I sculpture the spirit of the person," she explains.
And her work speaks volumes. The joy on Mazeroski's face, the ripples in his shirt, the steel spikes on his shoes - these details are not mere embellishments but reflections of Wagner's talent and dedication.
A Labor of Love
Wagner's dedication to her craft is unwavering, even if it hasn't always translated into financial stability. She lives alone in Friendship and has often taken on odd jobs to sustain her studio practice.
"I don't make much. There have been times when I cleaned houses or painted walls for people. It's difficult, but I'd rather do that than anything else. I'd paint walls over a 9-to-5 job to have time for my art," she says.
A Sign from Above
At one point, Wagner considered giving up her artistic pursuits. She was in a dry spell and found herself cleaning the Clemente statue, a task she occasionally took on to stay connected to her work.
"I was up on that ladder, thinking, 'God, give me a sign: Should I stop and pursue another career?'"
And then, in a moment that still gives her chills, she received her sign. A man across the street ran over, startled her, and threw his arms around her. "I know who you are. Thank you for giving Roberto back to us," he said.
That moment reaffirmed Wagner's purpose. It was a sign that her work, though often unrecognized, was deeply appreciated by the community.
A Call to Action
Susan Wagner's story is a reminder that art, and the artists who create it, often operate in the shadows. Her work, a labor of love, has brought joy and inspiration to countless fans.
So, the next time you pass by a statue of a sports legend, take a moment to appreciate not just the subject but also the artist behind it. Their work, though often unseen, is a gift to us all.
And this is the part most people miss: the story behind the statue, the artist's journey, and the impact their work has on the community.
What do you think? Should artists like Susan Wagner receive more recognition for their contributions? Share your thoughts in the comments!
