Nathaniel Kaz, Last Surviving Sculptors Guild Founder, Remembered as Clear-Eyed Working Sculptor

Nathaniel Kaz, a pivotal figure in American Modernism and the last living founding member of the Sculptors Guild, passed away on December 13, 2010, at the age of 93. A memorial service held on December 29, 2010, featured a tribute from Mary Ellen Scherl, President of the Sculptors Guild, which included reflections from sculptor Richard Heinrich. Kaz, a National Academician, was a fervent supporter of direct carving and traditional bronze casting, having spent time in Pietrasanta. In 1937, he collaborated with Chaim Gross, Paul Manship, Jose de Creft, Herbert Ferber, William Zorach, and Jose De Rivera to form the Sculptors Guild, which sought to elevate sculpture within cultural life. Their first exhibition in 1938, staged in an empty Park Avenue parking lot, was groundbreaking in its use of alternative spaces. The Guild's innovative approach had a lasting impact on the international art scene post-World War II, enhancing the stature of American art. Seven years prior to his passing, Kaz actively participated in a Sculptors Guild Annual Meeting at Heinrich's home, where Heinrich reminisced about a deep conversation with Kaz over wine, highlighting his sharp intellect, vivid recollections of the Guild's origins, and unwavering support for fellow artists. Kaz was revered as a 'grand mensch' and an exemplary figure of a committed, insightful sculptor.