In a recent swirl of loss, members of the University of Utah community are mourning the deaths of Department of Art & Art History greats: Emeritus Professor Roger “Sam” Wilson (1943 – 2023) and Professor Tony Smith (1939 – 2023).
Sam Wilson Exhibition in the Gittins Gallery in 2015 (Photo: Amelia Walchli)Known colloquially as the Groucho Marxist, Wilson was celebrated both for his prowess at making and teaching art, which he did at the U from 1987 to 2014.
“He dedicated his life to shaping young artists by helping them discover their full potential,” said Department of Art & Art History Chair, V. Kim Martinez, who was a dear friend and colleague of Wilson’s during his 36-year tenure. “His gentle, compassionate, and humorous nature immediately put young artists at ease, and he quickly became a mentor to many of us.”
But he did much more than just teach art, she said. “Over the years, he taught me the value of curiosity, dedication, and perseverance. Sam offered sage advice and always had a kind word to say to students, reminding us that it was the process that mattered when making a piece of art and, if possible, not taking it too seriously, and always look for a pun. It is impossible to overstate Sam Wilson’s impact on my life and the lives of so many others. His legacy will live on in the countless students he touched and the countless hearts he touched along the way.”
Smith had a similarly profound impact on his students, colleagues, and the community during his time at the U which spanned from 1968 to 2004.
Untitled by Tony SmithAlumna and now Adjunct Professor Lindsay Frei (‘00) remembers a valuable insight Smith bestowed on her about not relying on others to shape her self-concept or to motivate her — that had to come from within. She knew he supported her, and he didn’t mince words telling her that nobody else can or will care as much about her as she can.
Interestingly, in an interview with Smith for 15 Bytes, Frank McEntire wrote that “if [Tony] had a do-over, he says he wouldn’t have criticized his students’ work so severely.”
“While this was a challenging lesson to get through my skull; it remains to this day one of the best pieces of advice I have gotten,” Frie said. “He was unbelievably talented as both an artist and a teacher. While he no longer walks with us, his inspiration to believe in yourself and to pursue and cultivate your driving passions is a message that will live on.”
The memories of these two incredible artists and educators burn bright in our studios, galleries, halls, and hearts. May they rest in peace, power, and paint.
Additional stories on Wilson and Smith:
- The Groucho Marxist: University of Utah professor Sam Wilson melds whimsy and discipline in his art | Continuum
- Long Live the Groucho Marxist: Sam Wilson (1943 – 2023) | 15 Bytes
- Sam Wilson: It’s All an Illusion | 15 Bytes
- The Eternal Art Major: Sam Wilson | SLUG Mag
- Tony Smith (1939 – 2023): You’re not done with me yet | 15 Bytes
- Tony Smith Rides Again | 15 Bytes
- Tony Smith: We’re All Mad Here | 15 Bytes