William (Bill) Tarr (1925–2006) was an American sculptor, painter, and accomplsihed magician, whose diverse artistic career spanned over five decades. Born in New York City, Tarr was a self-taught artist who gained widespread recognition for his monumental sculptures, which blend abstract expressionism with social and political commentary. His works, characterized by their bold forms and profound messages, are prominently displayed in public spaces, leaving a lasting impression on the urban landscape.
Tarr’s most well-known sculpture is the 30-foot welded steel memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which was installed near Lincoln Center in New York City in the early 1970s. The sculpture stands as a powerful tribute to the civil rights leader’s legacy and showcases Tarr’s ability to transform raw industrial materials into emotive, thought-provoking works of art.
Another significant contribution is the Gates of the Six Million, a massive 5,900-pound bronze sculpture installed at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. This poignant piece commemorates the victims of the Holocaust and reflects Tarr's deep engagement with themes of human resilience, suffering, and remembrance.
In addition to his public art, Tarr had a thriving career as a magician and author. Performing under the stage name "The Great Tarrini" from 1947 to 1988, he captivated audiences with his sleight of hand and storytelling abilities. His passion for magic led him to author several bestselling instructional books, including Now You See It, Now You Don’t, which became an essential resource for aspiring magicians worldwide.
Tarr’s artistic vision extended beyond sculpture and magic; he was also an accomplished painter and photographer. His abstract compositions often incorporated themes of social justice, history, and human emotion, blending expressive colors with dynamic textures. Throughout his career, Tarr remained committed to making art accessible to the public, believing strongly in the power of art to inspire change and provoke dialogue.
His works are held in numerous public and private collections, and his influence can be felt across various disciplines, from fine art to performance art. Tarr's commitment to addressing significant social issues through his work has cemented his legacy as a multi-talented artist whose creations continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Tarr’s works are included in the permanent collections of major institutions, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Hirshhorn Museum, further solidifying his place in the canon of American art history.