Edmonia Lewis 1844 – 1907

Biography

Born on July 4, 1844, in Greenbush, Edmonia Lewis became a pioneering figure in American sculpture during an era when few women—and even fewer African American artists—gained recognition in the fine arts. Despite the considerable barriers she faced, Lewis pursued her artistic ambitions with remarkable determination, establishing herself as a significant voice in nineteenth-century sculptural traditions.

Throughout her career, Lewis devoted herself to the craft of sculpture, creating works that reflected both technical skill and artistic vision. Her achievements represent an important chapter in the history of African American art and women artists in America. Lewis’s legacy endured beyond her lifetime, testament to the enduring power of her artistic contributions.

On September 17, 1907, Lewis passed away in Hammersmith, England, where she had spent much of her later life. She was laid to rest at St Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Kensal Green, in the United Kingdom. Though her life spanned a transformative period in American history, Edmonia Lewis’s dedication to sculpture and her groundbreaking career continue to inspire artists and scholars who recognize her as a trailblazer in her field.