Born in 1891, Alma Thomas grew through the
period of racial tensions. Due to discrimination and segregation, African
American artists had a tough time making themselves recognized within the art
world. They came together to demand changes, calling for “Black Power.” As a
result of their activism, the mainstream finally started to recognize black
artists. Alma Thomas became the first African-American woman to have a solo
exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Inspired by nature, Thomas focused on
themes such as trees or gardens. She used subtle strokes in Wind, Sunshine, and
Flowers. Small brushes and carefully designed highlights in loose stripes
create curls and curves which could give viewers a feeling of floral in her
work. (As shown below)
Personally, this is my favorite one in the Black Power
section. Walking through the exhibition, I was amazed by the rich color and
rhythmic power in Thomas’ work. As she said, “Through color, I have sought to
concentrate on beauty and happiness, rather than on man’s inhumanity to man.”
Although she was discriminated and criticized for her race, gender and her
abstract style, Thomas still believed creative art is independent from any
labels and continued her creative process.
Your descriptive language is very strong in this review, especially when discussing Thomas's brushstrokes. This makes it easier for the reader visualize the piece, even without the included photo. The choice to include a quote from Thomas herself also strengthens the description of her work. However, I think that you should spend more time discussing the exhibition as a whole with a little less time on Thomas as an individual artist. Something that could be especially helpful in doing this would be language to describe the gallery's space to situate the reader in the show.
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