The Studio Art AP students at Oak Hills High School recently had the opportunity to meet internationally renowned sculptor Tom Tsuchiya. Tscuhiya, a Cincinnati native, is most notably known regionally for the creation of the sculptures of the Cincinnati Reds players Joe Nuxhall, Frank Robinson, Ted Kluszewski, Ernie Lombard, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, and Johnny Bench at Great American Ball Park. Some of Tscuhiya’s other commissioned works include: the “Lux Mundi” sculpture of Jesus at Solid Rock Church in Monroe, Ohio; Xavier University and the University of Cincinnati’s mascot sculptures; “The Spirit of Christ” at Biola University; “Recycled Atlas”, a traveling work; and the “Madden Most Valuable Protectors Award”, a trophy awarded annually to the National Football League’s best offensive line.

The students were able to learn about Tsuchiya’s creative process, experiences with private and public commissioned works, and the innovative sculpting strategies being developed for his next addition to Great American Ball Park, Pete Rose, which was just announced this week.