Amelia Earhart, Figure

Figure maquette of Amelia Earhart (July 24, 1897 – July 2, 1937) by sculptor Zenos Frudakis. Amelia Earhart, the legendary aviation pioneer and author, disappeared in 1937 during an attempt to fly around the globe. Frudakis’ work includes a portrait bust of Earhart and two full-figure maquettes from which life-size or monumental sculptures may be developed. In the video below, Frudakis discusses Earhart’s life and the inspirations behind his sculptures, paying tribute to her enduring character and global legacy.

Size: Smaller study for life-size sculpture
Media: Clay
Location: Work in progess

⭐America 250— Amelia Earhart: A Symbol of American Determination and Discovery
Legendary aviation pioneer and author Amelia Earhart embodied courage, curiosity, and the American spirit of exploration. She became the first female pilot to fly solo nonstop across the Atlantic Ocean and the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to California—accomplishments that challenged gender barriers and inspired generations of women and girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and aviation.

Earhart used her fame to champion women’s equality. She co-founded The Ninety-Nines, an international organization for female pilots, and was an active member of the National Woman’s Party and an early supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment. Her achievements and independent spirit made her one of the most inspirational American figures of the late 1920s and 1930s.

Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross by the U.S. Congress, she was the first woman to receive this military honor for “heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight.” Today, Amelia Earhart remains a timeless symbol of empowerment, adventure, and the pursuit of bold dreams—especially in fields historically dominated by men.