Adjusting Our Focus

 Alma Thomas, celebrated for her vibrant, abstract paintings, found inspiration in nature and color theory.  Elizabeth Catlett, known for her sculptures and prints, depicted the struggles and strength of Black and Mexican working-class women. Selma Burke was a sculptor best known for her bronze relief of Franklin D. Roosevelt, considered the basis for his image on the dime. Sylvia Snowden creates expressive, textured portraits that reflect the emotional and racial realities of Black life in America. Lilian Thomas Burwell, CUA alum, merges painting and sculpture to create organic, flowing forms inspired by personal history and nature. Loïs Mailou Jones was a painter and educator who shaped generations of artists at Howard University. By bringing attention to these remarkable women, Adjusting Our Focus encourages a deeper appreciation of their lasting impact on American art.

The following pages are more detailed profiles of these six remarkable artists. Click the "next" button to explore more.