5 Things You Should Know about Howard University’s Own Elizabeth Catlett: The Black Revolutionary Artist

Photo Credit: The Museum of Modern Art

“I have been, and am currently, and always hope to be a Black Revolutionary Artist, and all that it implies!

-Elizabeth Catlett

Happy Women’s History Month! Can you name a Black woman artist who graduated from an HBCU and used art to reshape the world around her? Well, now you can because Elizabeth Catlett was exactly that. A true pioneer in every sense of the word, Catlett was more than just a visual artist—she was a force of nature, changing how we see the Black experience through her powerfully political art. And today, her work is being celebrated at North Carolina Central University’s Art Museum as we honor her legacy, especially during Women’s History Month.

As an Howard University alumna, I’m especially proud to share Catlett’s story, one that embodies the strength, resilience, and vision that continue to fuel the HBCU legacy. Let’s take a look at five things you should know about Elizabeth Catlett and why she’s more than deserving of this spotlight.

1. Denied Entry to Carnegie Mellon, But Found a Home at Howard University

Did you know that Catlett was once denied admission to what is now Carnegie Mellon University just because of her race? Back in the 1930s, Catlett had already shown immense promise as an artist, but the school’s racism didn’t let her in—revoking her admittance when they discovered she was Black. Can you imagine? But that setback didn’t stop her.

Instead, she turned to Howard University, where she earned her Bachelors degree and continued to hone her craft. For her, Howard wasn’t just a place to study—it was where she could grow into the activist and artist she was destined to become. As a woman and as a Black woman at a time when higher education wasn’t common for women, especially women of color, this was groundbreaking.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate not just her art but her courage in breaking through the barriers that tried to keep her down. Her story reminds us that, despite the obstacles, she forged ahead and created a legacy that changed the world.

Elizabeth Catlett, Sharecropper, 1970 via Noma.org

2. A Pioneer in Every Sense of the Word

Elizabeth Catlett's journey was one of breaking barriers and challenging expectations. Born in 1915 in Washington, D.C., to two formerly enslaved parents, she inherited a legacy of resilience and perseverance. At a time when it was rare for women, especially Black women, to pursue higher education, Catlett was determined to carve her own path. She wasn’t just an artist; she was a pioneer in every sense.

In 1940, Catlett made history by becoming the first woman ever to earn a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree from the University of Iowa. She was also the first African American to earn the degree at the university. These accomplishments were unprecidenting, clearing a path for Black women in the arts who were often excluded from prestigious academic spaces. Imagine the courage it took for her to walk into that classroom as one of the few women, let alone the first Black woman, to attain this level of achievement.

Catlett’s story isn’t just about overcoming the odds—it’s about reshaping the narrative for Black women in academia and the arts. Her achievement at the University of Iowa was a step forward for Black women striving to make their mark, and she set the stage for future generations of artists to follow. Her legacy reminds us of the power of persistence and the importance of representation in higher education.

Elizabeth Catlett, Mother and Child, 1956 via moma.org

3. Reimagining the Classics: Making Art About What She Knew

One of Catlett’s most enduring contributions to the art world was her dedication to depicting the Black experience. It’s easy to forget that, for a long time, the voices of Black people in art and culture were overlooked or ignored. When Catlett was told by one of her mentors to make art about “something you know the most about,” she didn’t just make portraits. She gave the world a new perspective—one that placed Black experiences front and center.

She reimagined classic themes, like “Madonna and Child,” but with a powerful twist, depicting a Black woman as the Madonna, holding her child with pride and strength. This wasn’t just art—it was activism. It was a way for Catlett to say that Black people, especially Black women, had stories that deserved to be told and recognized. Through her work, she showed the world that beauty and reverence weren’t just for white faces—they were for all people, regardless of race.

Her dedication to portraying the realities and strengths of Black life made her a beacon in the art world, and it continues to inspire artists today. How many artists have followed in her footsteps, using their work to redefine what is considered “classical” art?

Elizabeth Catlett, Black Unity 1968 (Photo: Edward C. Robison III) via BrooklynMuseum.org

4. Elizabeth Catlett’s Impact on Art and Activism

Catlett didn’t just make art; she used it as a platform for change. She was committed to fighting for social justice through her work, challenging societal norms and pushing for the recognition of Black identity in a world that often tried to erase it. Her art wasn’t just for galleries—it was for the people.

She was an active member of the Spiral Group, a collective of Black artists who wanted to highlight the importance of African American voices in the art world. Through this group and her solo work, Catlett set a standard for future generations of artists, proving that activism and art could go hand in hand. Her work remains a powerful reminder of how art can inspire social change and amplify voices that are often marginalized.

Her legacy still resonates today—her works continue to be displayed in museums across the country, her story continues to inspire new artists, and her message remains ever so relevant in our world.

5. Honoring Her Legacy Today

If you’re in the Durham, North Carolina area, you don’t want to miss the incredible exhibit dedicated to Elizabeth Catlett at the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Art Museum. The exhibition offers an in-depth look at Catlett’s groundbreaking work and provides an opportunity to experience the powerful imagery and themes she explored throughout her career. This exhibit is not just a tribute to her artistry but a celebration of her life and the impact her art has had on the world and the African American community.

As we reflect on Catlett’s incredible body of work, it’s important to remember that her contributions continue to inspire. The exhibition at NCCU is a beautiful way to honor her life and work, but it also reminds us that art is a living, breathing testament to the cultures and histories we hold dear.

Just like the HBCU Leggings community, Catlett’s legacy is all about empowerment and pride. She used her platform to uplift and empower Black people, particularly Black women, through her art. And as we continue to share her story, we honor not just her legacy as an artist but as an activist who pushed boundaries and fought for change. Her work continues to inspire artists, activists, and everyday people, reminding us that we have the power to change the world in our own ways.

---

At HBCU Leggings, we honor the spirit of artists like Catlett who inspire us to continue pushing boundaries and embracing the power of self-expression. As always, you can express your HBCU pride in style by visiting our website, HBCULeggings.com, and exploring our latest collection, which reflects the strength and resilience of our HBCUs.

Love and Leggings,

 Bibi