Marion Perkins, a self-taught African American sculptor from Chicago, died on this day in 1961. Born in 1908, Perkins worked as a newspaper vendor on Chicago’s South Side during the Great Depression. In his spare time, he began carving figures from bars of soap—early signs of his immense artistic talent.

His work was discovered by Peter Pollack, then director of the Community Art Center Division of the Illinois Art Project (part of the WPA). Perkins went on to produce powerful sculptures reflecting social justice, civil rights, and the dignity of everyday people. His most famous work, Man of Sorrows, embodies themes of suffering and resilience.

Perkins’ life and art reflected a deep commitment to social change, and he remains a celebrated figure in African American art history.