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Portrait of Elizabeth Catlett

Elizabeth Catlett

(1915–2012) Sculptor United States

5 quotes in 24 categories

Elizabeth Catlett was a sculptor from the United States, best known for A courtyard apart.

Quick Facts About Elizabeth Catlett

Born
April 15, 1915
Died
April 2, 2012
Nationality
United States
Profession
Sculptor
Notable works
A courtyard apart
Known for
Students Aspire, Black Unity
Spouse
Charles Wilbert White

About Elizabeth Catlett

Elizabeth Catlett, born as Alice Elizabeth Catlett, also known as Elizabeth Catlett Mora was an American and Mexican sculptor and graphic artist best known for her depictions of the Black-American experience in the 20th century, which often focused on the female experience. She was born and raised in Washington, D.C., to parents working in education, and was the grandchild of formerly enslaved people. It was difficult for a black woman then to pursue a career as a working artist. Catlett devoted much of her career to teaching. However, a fellowship awarded to her in 1946 allowed her to travel to Mexico City, where she settled and worked with the Taller de Gráfica Popular for twenty years and became head of the sculpture department for the Escuela Nacional de Artes Plásticas. In the 1950s, her main means of artistic expression shifted from print to sculpture, though she never gave up the former.

Biography source: Wikipedia

Awards & Honors

Women's Caucus for Art Lifetime Achievement Award Candace Award honorary degree from Spelman College

Quotes by Elizabeth Catlett