Celebrated artist Elizabeth Catlett honored at Chicago Gala

Jet, Dec 12, 2005

The Art Institute of Chicago recently honored renowned artist and sculptor Elizabeth Catlett with the first-ever Art Institute of Chicago Legends and Legacy Award, which recognizes artists of African-American heritage who have made significant and long-standing contributions to the arts.

Over 500 guests attended the cocktail buffet dinner to pay tribute to the legendary artist. After musical tributes from the Chicago Children's Choir, Catlett, 90, participated in an onstage, 30-minute conversation about her life and experiences as a dynamic printmaker and sculptor who has had an undeniable influence in the art world through her dedication to social justice, women's rights, and advocacy for literacy.

She is an alumna of the School of the Art Institute and has said she was influenced by participants of the Harlem Renaissance as well as the artists of the Mexican muralist tradition. Catlett has long ascribed to the ideal that art could and should play a role in the transformation of society.

The Art Institute recently acquired five rare linoleum prints by Catlett, which have become part of the museum's permanent collection of prints and drawings. The gala also served as a kickoff for the exhibit of Catlett's remarkable works.

With dual citizenship, Catlett splits her time between homes in New York and Cuernavaca, outside of Mexico City. She has spent 50 years creating prints and wood and bronze sculptures. Among Catlett's best-known works is the celebrated series "I Am the Black Woman."

Her print Sharecropper has become an icon for her illustrious career. She graduated from Howard University and earned the University of "Iowa's first master of fine arts degree.

Catlett's compelling works will be on view through April in Gallery 141 at the Art Institute of Chicago.