Augusta Savage was a visionary sculptor and a pivotal figure in the Harlem Renaissance. As the first African-American woman to open her own art gallery in the U.S., she used her art to shape history and pave the way for future generations.
Need to Know:
- Augusta Savage was born Augusta Christine Fells in Green Cove Springs, Florida, in 1892.
- Despite facing poverty, racism, and sexism, she became a prominent sculptor and an influential teacher.
- Savage was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a period of significant African-American cultural output in New York City during the 1920s and ’30s.
- She studied at Cooper Union in New York and later in Paris thanks to the Julius Rosenwald Fund.
- Her notable works include busts of W.E.B. DuBois and Marcus Garvey, and “The Harp,” a large sculpture created for the 1939 World’s Fair.
- She founded the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts and directed the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project in New York.
Key Takeaways:
- Savage’s talent was evident from a young age, sculpting small objects from red clay she found in her neighborhood.
- She faced significant obstacles, including her father’s initial disapproval of her art and racial discrimination that prevented her from studying in France.
- Savage’s determination and resilience allowed her to overcome these challenges and pursue her passion for art.
- Her work often focused on depicting black leaders and individuals, celebrating African-American culture and history.
Implications for American Culture and Society:
- Augusta Savage’s life and work have had a lasting impact on American culture and society.
- She played a crucial role in the Harlem Renaissance, a movement that celebrated black artistic expression and challenged racial stereotypes.
- Savage’s art helped to elevate the status of African-American artists and brought greater visibility to black culture.
- Her work as a teacher and director of the Federal Art Project provided opportunities for many black artists during the Great Depression.
Lessons from Savage’s Life:
Augusta Savage’s life offers several valuable lessons:
- Perseverance: Despite facing numerous obstacles, Savage never gave up on her passion for art. Her determination is an inspiration to us all.
- Resilience: Savage bounced back from personal setbacks and discrimination, demonstrating incredible strength and resilience.
- Importance of Education: Savage valued education and used her skills to teach others, empowering a new generation of black artists.
- Cultural Pride: Savage celebrated her African-American heritage through her art, promoting cultural pride and challenging racial inequality.
Augusta Savage’s legacy lives on through her art, her influence on the Harlem Renaissance, and the institutions that bear her name. Her story reminds us of the power of art to shape history and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
