Alma Thomas: Fabulously Fierce
“ Even at 80 I feel like I’m just beginning to learn how to paint. ”
If you’ve never heard of Alma Thomas, buckle up because you’re about to meet a new hero.
When we visited the grand reopening of The National Women in the Arts Museum in the Red Exhibit gallery, there was a plaque stating: “In her late 70’s she discovered her signature style.” This was so inspiring to us! Think about it. Alma found her signature painting style in her late 70’s, after spending three decades teaching art in Washington, DC. There is hope. Life hasn’t passed us by unless we let it.
Watch this short video and you’ll quickly learn why we admire her work:
Despite facing immense barriers and challenges, Alma broke ground for African American female artists with her unique, vibrant abstract painting style. "One of the things we couldn't do was go into museums, let alone think about hanging our pictures there. My, times have changed! Just look at the way the world is opened up for young artists today” she reflected.
By boldly pursuing her art late into her senior years, ignoring stereotypes about both her race and gender, Thomas helped open doors for the next generation of artists. Though she grew up in a segregated world that severely limited opportunities for African American women, Thomas showed the power of perseverance.
Thomas remains an unsung hero who forged her own creative path that still inspires women to unleash their talents without fear or restriction. Her unique style and persevering spirit motivate us all to let our inner artist blossom.
If you visit Washington, DC, then take time to pay your respects at the National Gallery of Art. Here are her works for those who can’t visit: https://americanart.si.edu/artwork/antares-23998 or at the National Museum of Women in the Arts https://nmwa.org/art/artists/alma-woodsey-thomas/ as well as the Phillips Collection. https://www.phillipscollection.org/collection/breeze-rustling-through-fall-flowers
Next time you are told something is impossible, not worth trying, or you are too old to attempt something, remember Alma Thomas and draw inspiration from her.
Stay true to your dreams, develop your talent and who knows — one day you might just change the world!
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