About the Artist

Dr. Samella Lewis (1923-2022)

Artist and art historian Dr. Samella Lewis is renowned for her contributions to African American art and art history. Born on February 27, 1923, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dr. Lewis’ heritage led her to view art as an essential expression of the community and its struggles. The career of Dr. Lewis spanned over seventy five years and took her to many parts of the world. As an art historian and scholar, her knowledge is boundless and accessible. As an artist, Lewis remained at the forefront of her field. As a collector, she amassed an impressive and diverse collection that includes African American, Asian, Caribbean, Native American, South American and African Arts. As a social and community activist, she will serve as a reference for generations to come.

Samella Lewis completed the recastings of these bronze sculptures with the blessing of Richmond Barthe. Lewis, an artist herself and a pivotal figure in art history, was a close friend of Barthe. In 2009, she published “Barthe: His Life in Art” as a reflection on his métier.

"I hope that my people will look into my works and see a reflection of themselves. I have been trying to hold up a mirror to them and say, "look how beautiful you are." It wasn't until "yesterday" that they suddenly realized that they were beautiful. My dream in life was to make my people proud of me and show them how beautiful the world is." (Lewis, Barthe: His Life in Art)