African American Artistic Response
Leslie Garland Bolling (1898-1955), was a self-taught African American sculptor from Richmond whose work primarily focused on the lives and experiences of African Americans during the early 20th century. Bolling began wood carving in 1926 taking inspiration of everyday scenes that highlighted the dignity and humanity of his subjects. He is best remembered for his series of figures – Aunt Monday13, Sister Tuesday, Mama on Wednesday, Gossip on Thursday, Cousin on Friday, Cooking on Saturday – that illustrates the typical daily activities of African Americans in the Jackson Ward district where he lived. These figures demonstrate the domestic labor of servants in Richmond’s white households. He also sculpted the grace, strength, and beauty of African American athletes in sculptors titled, Boxer, Runner, and Shot Putter14, based on people he knew from his neighborhood. By focusing on ordinary people and their daily experiences, Bolling’s work offers a powerful counter-narrative to the dehumanizing effects of racial discrimination. His attention to detail and commitment to representing the Black experience make his work an essential part of Richmond’s artistic heritage.
Unfortunately, we don’t have much more information on the Black artistic response to industrialization in Richmond specifically, but we have other examples from artists like John T. Biggers, an influential African American muralist and painter, who spent some time in Richmond and the South. His murals often address themes of industrialization and its impact of life, culture, and history in his community. Samella Lewis is another African American artist who contributed her own experiences of identity and social justice that shaped her artistic vision while traveling through the South. Her artwork has helped to elevate the visibility of Black artist and their contributions to American culture. Lewis’ commitment to social justice and her use of art as a tool for activism resonate with the broader themes of industrialization.
These artists and their contributions continue to be celebrated and studied for their historical significance and their ongoing relevance to contemporary discussions about race, culture, and social justice. Their legacy is a testament to the power of art to both reflect and shape the human experience, particularly during time of significant societal change.
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