Christ of the Ozarks: A.K.A The Tale of Gumby Jesus

Coauthor and photo credit: Alicia DeRoma

In 2020, my mom, sister, and I visited Missouri to meet a long-lost relative. For this story, I enlisted my sister Alicia as a co-author because we shared the experience of encountering this oddity. She will tell the story today. 

Greetings, fellow adventurers! I'm Alicia, sister to The Wandering Oddball, and I've got a tale to share about my unforgettable encounter with none other than The Christ of the Ozarks. We visited Missouri to see our long-lost relatives, Uncle Doug and Aunt Tara. One memorable day, they took us on a spontaneous little road trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where they eagerly introduced us to the iconic Christ of the Ozarks. Our anticipation grew as we entered the grounds of The Great Passion Play, where the statue proudly stands. Ascending towards the imposing figure, we marveled at its craftsmanship and sheer size. Naturally, we couldn't resist capturing the moment with a series of photographs alongside The Christ of the Ozarks.

Standing proud at a towering 65.5 feet (20 meters) in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA, this colossal figure is a beacon of Christian faith and regional pride. Crafted by the skilled hands of sculptor Emmet Sullivan between 1966 and 1967, this awe-inspiring statue depicts Jesus Christ with arms outstretched atop Magnetic Mountain, extending a warm and welcoming embrace to all who approach. Commissioned by the controversial political figure and preacher Gerald L.K. Smith, The Christ of the Ozarks was envisioned as the centerpiece of a grand religious attraction aimed at drawing tourists to the breathtaking Ozark Mountains.

Critics have voiced significant concerns about the proportions of the Christ of the Ozarks statue, primarily focusing on its departure from traditional artistic portrayals of Jesus Christ and the human physique. Many have highlighted the statue's elongated arms, torso, and comparatively small head, which combine to give it a somewhat disproportionate and stylized look. This departure from classical depictions of Christ has been a central point of contention among those who question the artistic choices made in creating the statue.

One aspect of criticism is rooted in aesthetics. Traditional artistic representations of Jesus Christ, particularly those found in Western art, often adhere to established conventions of proportion and anatomy. These representations strive for a sense of realism and humanism, aiming to convey Christ's divinity and humanity in a relatable and emotionally resonant manner. With its elongated features, some may see the Christ of the Ozarks statue as departing from these aesthetic norms, potentially diminishing its visual impact and spiritual resonance.

Moreover, critics argue that the exaggerated proportions of the statue may detract from its ability to communicate the central message of Christian faith and redemption effectively. The depiction of Jesus Christ in art has long been a subject of theological and cultural significance, with artists striving to convey themes of compassion, sacrifice, and divine love through their portrayals. Some critics contend that the unconventional proportions of the Christ of the Ozarks statue could undermine its capacity to convey these profound spiritual themes, leading to a loss of connection or resonance for viewers.

Additionally, criticism of the statue's proportions may extend to concerns about its historical and cultural context. As a monumental sculpture in a public space, the Christ of the Ozarks inevitably becomes part of the broader dialogue surrounding representation, identity, and collective memory. Some critics may question the decision to deviate from traditional artistic conventions in favor of a more stylized and distinctive interpretation of Jesus Christ, raising broader questions about the role of public art in reflecting and shaping cultural values and beliefs.

On Instagram, there's been a flurry of posts poking fun at the Christ of the Ozarks statue. Some users have shared photoshopped images depicting the statue with exaggerated features like comically elongated arms or an oversized head, adding captions that mock its unconventional proportions playfully. Many people criticized the statue, saying it looked like “Gumby Christ” or a milk carton with a tennis ball on top. Others have shared videos of themselves imitating the statue's pose, with arms outstretched or attempting to mimic its stoic expression, accompanied by humorous commentary. These posts often use satire and humor to highlight the perceived quirks of the statue's design, turning it into a lighthearted source of amusement for social media users.