FOR MY PEOPLE: LIFE, LOVE & ACTIVISM
sculpture and paintings by the renowned Elizabeth Catlett
Elizabeth Catlett was a graphic artist and sculptor best known for her depictions of the African-American experience in the 20th Century. Her work is a mixture of abstract and figurative in the Modernist tradition, with influences from African and Mexican art traditions. According to the artist, the main purpose of her work is to convey social messages rather than pure aesthetics. Her work is heavily studied by art students looking to depict race, gender and class issues. During her lifetime, Catlett received many awards and recognitions including membership in the Salon de la Plastica Mexicana, the Art
Institute of Chicago Legends and Legacy Award, honorary doctorates from Pace University and Carnegie Mellon and the International Sculpture Center’s Lifetime Achievement Award in contemporary sculpture.
