Elizabeth Catlett: “A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies” at the Art Institute of Chicago

I feel bad that, other than her iconic "Sharecropper," I knew so little of her life and work until going to the Art Institute of Chicago's Elizabeth Catlett: “A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies.”

It's a powerful show about a Black woman artist who lived a fascinating life. Despite the obstacles she faced while pursuing her education, she had the opportunity to study with Grant Wood, and later found freedom and inspiration after moving from the United States to Mexico. 

Sharecropper

Glory

Untitled (composition for a peace poster)

Angela Libre and Homage to the Panthers

Mother and Child

Stargazer

Political Prisoner

Homage to My Young Black Sisters

Nat Turner

Harriet Tubman

As you can see, Elizabeth Catlett worked in a variety of media. She even created a series of prints whose titles come together to form a poem.

The show will be ending on January 4th, so I went just in time. If you're in Chicago, see it while you can!

Design Chicago 2025

 

This year's Design Chicago event was a welcome respite from the chaos of the world. I took copious notes in the sessions I attended and saw some amazing products that I would love to incorporate into future projects. Here are a few of my favorites.

I look forward to using what I learned this year in service of new clients. Contact me here if you want to work with me.