Peter Lupori Papers

Peter J. Lupori taught studio art at the College of St. Catherine for 45 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University, served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and then received a master's degree in Art Education from the University of Minnesota. Lupori joined the St. Kate's art faculty in 1947. He met Catherine Pribyl, English professor at St. Kate's, and they married in 1958. He became a full professor and artist-in-residence in 1961.

Lupori was a prolific artist in the media of sculture, pottery, watercolor, and ink drawings. His work has been featured at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Walker Art Center, and many other galleries across the country. His sacred bronze sculptures can be found at St. Catherine University, Fairview-Southdale Hospital, the Ninth Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, several area churches, and other institutions. He designed the St. Catherine Medal that has been presented to graduates at commencement since 1955.

Lupori was compassionate and encouraging art professor who inspired his students to engage the creative process. Among many awards and honors during his long career, he was named to the College's Centennial 100, recognized with the Myser Alumnae Award for Teaching Excellence, and named honorary alumnus of St. Kate's. He retired in 1992 with the distinction of professor emeritus. Lupori continued to share his passion for art with students young and old at the Northern Clay Center, where he taught for more than twenty years. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 96.