Reviving Renaissance Ideals Through Contemporary American Sculpture
Frank L. Porcu is an acclaimed sculptor and anatomist known for creating powerful, lifelike sculptures rooted in classical tradition and anatomical precision. His sculptures, which include lauded portrayals of Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant, have been praised for their historical accuracy, artistic mastery, and capacity to move and inspire.
Porcu’s Lincoln bust was unveiled by Tony Bennett and described by historian Harold Holzer as “the best three-dimensional likeness” of the president he had ever seen.
Tony Bennett, Frank Porcu, Shawn Thomas, and Harold Holzer at the New York Historical Society's Lincoln sculpture unveiling.
Frank with Ret. General David Petraeus and Frank's Grant bust.
Frank and Doris Kerns Goodwin with Frank's Lincoln in Film sculpture.
Drawing on techniques dating back to the 15th century, Porcu’s work reflects a deep understanding of the human form, built from the skeleton outward, and infused with philosophical depth and emotional resonance.
With an academic background from Pratt Institute and the New York Academy of Art, Porcu has taught anatomical drawing and sculpture for over three decades at institutions including Columbia University, the New York Academy of Art, and the Art Students League of New York. His teaching—marked by live anatomical demonstrations and a passion for classical form-making—revives the intellectual rigor of traditional art education.
Through both his art and teaching, Porcu honors the legacy of America’s great sculptors, creating enduring works that embody truth, spirit, and beauty. His sculptures are held in private and public collections across the U.S. and abroad, including an installation of his Lincoln sculpture in Argentina’s Human Rights Plaza.
Unveiling of Frank's Lincoln sculpture in Argentina.
Frank works with Tony Bennett on Tony's bust.
Frank Porcu with Tony Kushner, writer of 'Lincoln' movie