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Jacob Lawrence

African American painter and art professor (1917-2000) · United States · On the map · Artists · Died at 82

Jacob Armstead Lawrence was an American painter known for his portrayal of African-American historical subjects and contemporary life. Lawrence referred to his style as "dynamic cubism", an art form popularized in Europe which drew great inspiration from West African and Meso-American art.

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Awards

Honorary Degree from Spelman College1987
Spingarn Medal1970
Guggenheim Fellowship
National Medal of Arts
Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences

About this person

For his compositions, Lawrence found inspiration in everyday life in Harlem. He brought the African-American experience to life using blacks and browns juxtaposed with vivid colors. Lawrence also taught and spent 16 years as a professor at the University of Washington.

Country
United States
Category
Artists
Type
Artist
Status
Deceased
Dates
Lived 1917 to 2000 · aged 82