Boy on a Bench
Date2007
MediumOffset lithograph on Somerset paper
DimensionsImage: 27 9/16 × 20 3/8 inches (70 × 51.8 cm)
Sheet: 27 9/16 × 20 3/8 inches (70 × 51.8 cm)
Matted: 40 × 32 inches (101.6 × 81.3 cm)
MarkingsWatermark on the front bottom left, vertically oriented: "Somerset"
Credit LineMuseum purchase in honor of Courtney McNeil with Telfair Museum of Art acquisitions endowment funds.
Object number2021.7.5
Copyright© 2023 Samella Lewis / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY.
The images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis depiction of a young boy sitting on a bench with his upturned eyes and slightly doleful expression offers a consideration of the transformative effect of education. This topic was important to Lewis, whose career is indicative of the benefits of learning. Lewis’ 1969 publication 'Black Artists on Art' offered the first survey of African American art history, and she has continued to make an impact as a trailblazing scholar, editor, curator, publisher, and artist. The artist considered art to be “instrument of communication—with myself and with others,” and frequently noted in interviews that her art was inseparable from her life experiences.
Text written for 'Contemporary Spotlight: New Acquisitions from the Brandywine Workshop' on view February 4 - May 1, 2022.
