While Renaissance art and earlier schools emphasized naturalistic depictions of people and landscapes, later art distanced from the depiction of visible reality. The advancements in science and technology enabled people to take a deeper look at the abstract constructs escaping the human eye. As a result, Abstract art emerged at the end of the 19th century to offer a new visual approach. The movement developed in the 20th century, with many famous Black Abstract artists emerging in the international art scene during the period. Here are the main names you should know.

Black Abstract Artists You Should Know

Alma Thomas (1891-1978)

Thomas was one of the first to embrace abstract art; the artist used vivid colors and short, repetitive brushstrokes to paint mosaic-like canvases. Her main themes revolved around natural harmony and cosmic phenomena and exuded optimism and joy. Besides, Alma Thomas was one of the first to challenge gender barriers in art and one of the most established Black female painters of her period. Among the best-known paintings by Thomas are Resurrection (1966) and Starry Night and the Astronauts (1972).

Sam Gilliam (1933-2022)

Sam Gilliam was famous for the “drape painting” technique – the use of unstretched canvas hanging like fabric on the wall. The artist introduced a revolutionary method of fusing color field painting and sculptural forms to create three-dimensional artwork on canvas. His creations possess a rich texture and depth due to skilled layering and staining. Gilliam favored improvisation and dedicated many of his art pieces to the exploration of African American identity. His best-known artworks are April 4 (1969), Carousel Form II (1969), and Blue Edge (1971).

Jack Whitten (1939-2018)

Jack Whitten left a unique trace in Abstract art due to the experimental fusion of science, metaphysics, and references to African culture in his work. The signature style of Whitten was a process-based abstraction, which involved the use of non-professional tools for dragging, cutting, and layering of paint. Many of his artworks gave tribute to historical and contemporary Black figures in American culture and politics, including Homage to Malcolm (1970) and Apps for Obama (2011).

There also were many other Black artists who stood out as established representatives of the Abstract art movement and whose works can now be found in the best museums around the world. Learn more about Black Abstract artists and Black legacy in modern and contemporary art on our blog.