What if a sculpture could tell a story as vast as the ocean itself? That’s exactly what Carrol Simms’ “Jonah and the Whale” does. This bronze sculpture captures a pivotal biblical moment. It stands as a testament to faith and redemption right here at the University of Houston.
“Jonah and the Whale” isn’t just a sculpture. It represents a unified university. Acquired by the Public Art of the University of Houston System, it was the first work by an African American artist in the collection.
Carrol Simms was a pioneer. He was the first African American to graduate from Cranbrook Academy of Art. Simms moved to Houston in 1950. He helped build the art department at Texas Southern University with John Biggers. Simms also won awards for his textile and jewelry designs.
Simms’ artistic journey took him around the world. He received Fulbright Fellowships. He studied in London at the Slade School of Fine Art and the British Museum. There, he apprenticed with Jacob Epstein. Epstein was a British abstract sculptor who greatly influenced Simms. Simms studied African art under William Buller Fagg. Fagg was a curator at the British Museum.
His pursuit of knowledge led him to Nigeria. He studied pottery and sculpture traditions of the Ibo and Yoruba masters. Later, he participated in the Festac of 1977 in Lagos and Kudna, Nigeria. It was the largest gathering of artists from African descent.
Simms made a huge impact on Houston’s African American art community. He brought a Pan-African and spiritual perspective to the art scene. You can find Simms’ works in many collections. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, holds some. Texas Southern University also displays his public works.
Consider the journey of this sculpture. It represents more than just a biblical tale. It embodies artistic achievement, cultural exploration, and community building. “Jonah and the Whale” is a powerful symbol. It reflects the diverse tapestry of Houston’s art landscape. It invites us to reflect on faith, art, and the human spirit.