Whether it was the stick figure drawing your mom insisted on hanging on your fridge when you were younger or a masterfully designed painting being unveiled at the Art Institute, the enjoyment of art exists within many in modern society. A catalyst for creative freedom, the arts have allowed many to express their pain, happiness, and memories in a way that is incomparable to other methods.
Unfortunately, this means of individuality has not always been accessible to everyone, Black people in particular. Experiencing centuries of mistreatment and abuse from a stigmatized society, the introduction of Black people into the art world was no easy feat. Nonetheless, the creativity that arose from these individuals and continues to popularize amongst this marginalized group has proved boundless. Here’s my list of the top 3 Black artists:
Unfortunately, this means of individuality has not always been accessible to everyone, Black people in particular. Experiencing centuries of mistreatment and abuse from a stigmatized society, the introduction of Black people into the art world was no easy feat. Nonetheless, the creativity that arose from these individuals and continues to popularize amongst this marginalized group has proved boundless. Here’s my list of the top 3 Black artists:
- 1. Kehinde Wiley
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Born February 28, 1977, Kehinde Wiley is an American portrait artist most widely known for his portraits that feature African Americans in the traditional setting of Old Master paintings. From the vast collection of colors to the extreme realism featured in the pieces, Wiley is an artist who continues to leave his mark on both the art world and the world of African American expression. This sense of creativity and uniqueness allows me to feel both appreciated as a Black woman and inspired as an artist.
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2. jacob lawrence
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An American painter known for his depiction of African American historical subjects and contemporary life, Jacob Lawrence is credited with creating art incomparable to any other. Referring to his own style as “dynamic cubism,” Lawrence incorporates various shapes and colors that add to the overall individuality of each piece. Born in 1917, Jacob Lawrence has continued to leave his mark on the world and act as a continuous inspiration for many.
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3. Elizabeth Catlett
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Born as Alice Elizabeth Catlett, this woman was an African American sculptor and graphic artist most popular for her works that highlighted the Black experience. She is honored as the artistic foremother by subsequent generations; with her masterfully designed pieces, she was able to epitomize the livelihood of Black women via iconic art methods.
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Nyla Sanders
