We were on a special schedule to be able to view the eclipse on campus on 4.8.24. We were told to distribute the eclipse glasses and head out to our black top area for the viewing. I had about 35 minutes in art class before we could go on the journey. What did I do? I taught a quick lesson on Alma Thomas and her Eclipse painting. You see, I think this was a win - win situation.
Alma Thomas was an African American artist known for her abstract paintings. She was born on September 22, 1891, in Columbus, Georgia, (FUN FACT 1969 and 1965 were both born in Columbus, too!) and passed away on February 24, 1978, in Washington, D.C. Thomas was a pioneering figure in the Washington Color School, a group of abstract artists in Washington, D.C., during the 1950s and 1960s. She gained recognition for her vibrant, colorful compositions inspired by nature, often using bold brushstrokes and geometric forms.
Thomas began her artistic career later in life after retiring from teaching in 1960. She became the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City in 1972. Throughout her career, Thomas's work evolved from representational to abstract, and she explored themes of color, light, and movement.
Alma Thomas's contributions to the art world were significant, not only for her artistic talent but also for breaking barriers as an African American woman in a predominantly white, male-dominated field during the mid-20th century. Her legacy continues to inspire artists and admirers alike.
We used 9x12 white paper and crayons. This was simple but effective as I have learned on days like the eclipse to just roll with it and enjoy the JOURNEY!
1969
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