Augusta Savage

Definition

Augusta Savage was an influential African American sculptor and artist, active primarily during the Harlem Renaissance. Her work was characterized by its focus on themes of African American identity and cultural pride, making her a key figure in the development of art that expressed the experiences and aspirations of Black Americans during this transformative period in U.S. history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augusta Savage was born on February 29, 1892, in Green Cove Springs, Florida, and she faced significant racial and gender barriers throughout her life.
2. Her most famous work, 'The Harp,' was a monumental sculpture created for the 1939 New York World's Fair that depicted the contributions of African Americans to American culture.
3. Savage was not only an artist but also a mentor and educator, founding the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts in Harlem to support emerging artists.
4. She was a key member of the Harlem Artists Guild and was deeply involved in promoting African American art during the Harlem Renaissance.
5. Despite her talents, Savage struggled financially throughout her life and often faced challenges in gaining recognition for her work due to systemic racism in the art world.

Review Questions

• How did Augusta Savage's work reflect the themes of the Harlem Renaissance?
  • Augusta Savage's sculptures embodied the themes of the Harlem Renaissance by focusing on African American identity, culture, and history. Her work celebrated Black achievements and sought to counter stereotypes while promoting cultural pride. Savage used her art to communicate the struggles and aspirations of Black Americans, making her an essential voice within this vibrant movement that sought to uplift and empower African Americans through artistic expression.
• In what ways did Augusta Savage contribute to the mentoring of young artists during her lifetime?
  • Augusta Savage significantly contributed to mentoring young artists by establishing the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts in Harlem. This studio served as a nurturing space for emerging artists, offering guidance, resources, and support for their creative endeavors. Through her mentorship, Savage played a crucial role in fostering a new generation of Black artists who would continue to build upon the cultural foundation established during the Harlem Renaissance.
• Evaluate the impact of systemic barriers on Augusta Savage's career and how they reflect broader societal challenges faced by Black artists during her time.
  • Augusta Savage's career was deeply impacted by systemic barriers such as racism and sexism, which limited her opportunities for recognition and financial success. Despite her talent and contributions to art, she often struggled to gain support from galleries or institutions dominated by white artists. This reflects broader societal challenges faced by many Black artists during her time, who were frequently marginalized and excluded from mainstream art circles. The obstacles Savage encountered highlight the need for ongoing advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the arts.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s that celebrated African American culture and produced significant works in literature, music, and visual arts.

Sculpture: A three-dimensional artwork created by shaping or combining materials, often representing figures or forms that convey emotion or narrative.

The Works Progress Administration (WPA): A New Deal agency that provided jobs for millions of Americans during the Great Depression, including funding for artists and their projects to promote American culture.