JOE SIMS

Joe Sims is a journalist, a political activist and a writer. He is also a powerful and talented actor, which is how I got to know him. He was in the Visible Theater "True Story Project," one of a group of serious actors who write and then perform monologues which are woven together as a remarkable ensemble piece. Joe's performance was transcendent.

I got to know him some - persuaded him to sit for the sculpture you see here. Over time, I learned that he is a serious thinker. He is the editor in chief of "Political Affairs," a marxist monthly (not so many of those around these days) and he feels passionately about a range of political and social issues.

He comes by his views - and his passion - honestly. Born in Youngstown Ohio, he was hugely influenced by his family - steel workers and union men and women. His grandmother helped found the United Steel Workers Union in the 30's and was also active in the African American Freedom Movement and the NAACP. His father ran for Union President.

Joe became an actor when the fledgling troop held a rehearsal in the lobby of his apartment building. One of the actors noticed his curiosity and dared him to join in. He did. "I was taken in by what they were doing - the process of story telling. I've been there ever since." His stories are magical and his performances commanding in part because he uses the full range of his physicality including the aids he needs as a result of being born with Spina Bifida. He may start in a chair, descend to the floor, reach for a crutch to stand up. It is almost a dance without ever being a distraction from the tale he tells. And it is beautiful.