Bob Cassilly

Bob Cassilly (1949 – September 26, 2011) was an American sculptor, entrepreneur, and creative director best known as the founder of City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri. Cassilly's work is characterized by large-scale, interactive, and often recycled artistic creations. His approach to art and design was hands-on, leading to the transformation of abandoned spaces into vibrant, immersive environments.

Early Life and Education

Bob Cassilly was born in 1949 in Webster Groves, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. From a young age, Cassilly showed a keen interest in art and sculpture. He pursued his passion for art by studying at Fontbonne University in St. Louis, where he earned a degree in Fine Arts. Cassilly furthered his education by attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he honed his skills in sculpture and design.

Career

After completing his education, Cassilly returned to St. Louis, where he embarked on a career as a sculptor. He gained recognition for his ability to repurpose materials and transform them into engaging pieces of art. Cassilly's early works included playgrounds and public sculptures that encouraged interaction and exploration.

In 1997, Cassilly's vision for a new kind of museum led to the creation of the City Museum. Housed in a former shoe factory in downtown St. Louis, the City Museum is a sprawling complex of artistic installations, mazes, slides, and repurposed architectural elements. Cassilly's hands-on approach and imaginative use of materials made the museum an instant success, drawing visitors from around the world.

Beyond the City Museum, Cassilly worked on various projects, including the creation of Cementland, an ambitious project aimed at transforming a former cement factory into a public art space. Although Cementland remained unfinished at the time of his death, it exemplifies Cassilly's creative spirit and his commitment to revitalizing neglected spaces.

Death

Bob Cassilly died in a bulldozer accident on September 26, 2011, while working on the Cementland project. His sudden death was a great loss to the St. Louis community and the art world. Cassilly's legacy lives on through his contributions to public art and the ongoing popularity of the City Museum.

Legacy

Bob Cassilly's work has had a lasting impact on the field of interactive art and urban renewal. His ability to see potential in abandoned spaces and transform them into places of wonder and creativity has inspired a new generation of artists and designers. The City Museum continues to serve as a testament to Cassilly's vision, creativity, and dedication to making art accessible to all.