Kunstner
Født i Hartford, United States of America
Early Life and Education
Born: May 16, 1887, Hartford, Connecticut
Parents: Reverend Robert Foster Wheeler and Mary (née Freeman) Wheeler
Family Background: Her mother was involved in anti-slavery activities.
Education: Graduated from Hartford Public High School in 1906. Studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, graduating in 1914.
Early Career: Began teaching part-time in Philadelphia while studying.
Career and Artistic Development
Teaching at Cheyney University: Taught art and music for over thirty years at Cheyney University, Pennsylvania, eventually becoming director of the art programs.
European Travels (1914 & 1924): Received a scholarship to study in Paris (1914). A second trip to Europe in 1924 proved pivotal, leading to a shift in her artistic style towards more vibrant colors and realism.
Artistic Style: Initially influenced by European masters like Monet, Manet, Corot, and Cézanne. Later developed a distinctive style characterized by realistic depictions with vivid color and atmosphere. Houses at Semur, France (1925) is considered a key work marking this stylistic shift.
Harlem Renaissance Portraits: Commissioned by the Harmon Foundation to paint portraits of prominent African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. These portraits are among her most celebrated works.
Major Works and Subjects
W. E. B. Du Bois (1948): A realistic oil painting capturing the wisdom and melancholy of the prominent intellectual.
Little Brown Girl: A captivating portrait blending realism and impressionism, showcasing her skill with color and texture.
Naomi Barnett Aden: A black and white portrait evoking dignity and contemplation through chiaroscuro.
Portraits for the Harmon Foundation Exhibition (1928): Included portraits of significant African American figures like Mary White Ovington and James Weldon Johnson.
Illustrations for The Crisis: Contributed illustrations to the NAACP’s magazine, celebrating the dignity of African American life.
Legacy and Historical Significance
Recognition: Exhibited her work in Paris and across America. Her portraits were displayed at institutions like the Corcoran Gallery, Brooklyn Museum, and Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Influence on Black Artists: Waring's dedication to arts education and her portrayal of prominent African Americans helped inspire future generations of artists.
Contribution to Civil Rights: Her portraits served as a powerful visual representation of African American achievement during the early civil rights movement.
Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame Induction (1997): Honored for her commitment to teaching and art, and her influence on African American artists and teachers.
Death: Died February 3, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
