News Summary
David Adickes, a renowned Houston artist known for his monumental sculptures, including the Sam Houston statue, has passed away at the age of 98. Born in Huntsville, Texas, Adickes became a significant figure in public art, leaving behind a legacy that reflects the cultural identity of Houston. His work includes impressive busts of U.S. presidents and a distinctive white sculpture style that became his trademark. Adickes’ contributions to both the arts and urban planning will be remembered as he inspired future generations of artists.
Houston – David Adickes, a highly acclaimed Houston artist and creator of the iconic Sam Houston statue, passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on July 13, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born in Huntsville, Texas in 1927, Adickes exhibited a passion for creativity early in life. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Math from Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in 1948. Following his academic pursuits, he served in the Air Force towards the end of World War II before immersing himself in the arts. His studies continued at the Kansas City Art Institute and Atelier Fernand Leger in Paris, where he honed his skills and developed a unique artistic vision.
Adickes is best known for his monumental work, the 67-foot-tall statue titled “A Tribute to Courage,” which honors Sam Houston and stands proudly along I-45 in Huntsville. This statue has become a lasting symbol of the community, drawing visitors and instilling pride in local residents. His contributions to public art extended beyond this landmark, as he also created a 76-foot-tall statue of Stephen F. Austin, which overlooks Highway 288.
In addition to these works, Adickes sculpted a series of giant busts of American presidents, collectively known as “Mount Rush Hour.” These impressive 18-foot-tall sculptures of presidents such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are located near I-45 north of downtown Houston. He also crafted a bust of President John F. Kennedy, strategically placed near Bush Intercontinental Airport as part of the “JFK on JFK” project, along with a statue of President George H.W. Bush named “Winds of Change,” which further enforces his artistic legacy associated with the United States’ political history.
Adickes’ artistic contributions are not only visually striking but also culturally significant, embodying the spirit and identity of Houston. His distinctive all-white sculpture style became his trademark, although he also created the colorful “We Heart Houston” sign, further showcasing his versatility as an artist. Some of his more whimsical works include sculptures of The Beatles, which were notably priced at $350,000 each.
Adickes’ commitment to the arts extended beyond personal creations; he made significant contributions to urban planning and sustainability sciences, particularly notable in the development of The Woodlands in Texas. His earlier career focused primarily on painting, but he ventured into monumental sculpture with his first significant piece, “Virtuoso,” created in 1983.
His collaborations also included participation in a project where he contributed to the creation of 43 busts of American presidents for Presidents Park in Williamsburg, Virginia, although that venture ultimately faced bankruptcy. Adickes’ work continues to resonate as a vital part of Houston’s art scene, inspiring future generations of artists.
The impact of David Adickes on the art community and the cities he cherished will be remembered long after his passing, marking the end of an era for Houston’s cultural landscape. His legacy serves as a testament to his creativity and dedication to the visual arts, securing his place as a significant figure in American art history.
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