Join us for a FREE film titled: “Standing Strong: Elizabeth Catlett” (synopsis) in conjunction with Art and Activism at Tougaloo College exhibition now on view. This Mid-America Emmy nominated film highlights the story of black activist-artist Elizabeth Catlett. Catlett studied under artist Grant Wood and in 1941was the first African American female to receive an MFA from the University of Iowa in Studio Arts. Later she embraced the politically tolerant culture of Mexico, as a conducive environment for her to work as artist and teacher. Her connection to human rights on the heels of the McCarthy era created conflict leading to her imprisonment. Later Catlett renounced her American citizenship and became a Mexican citizen. Nevertheless, her works were still exhibited in museums world-wide.  A pioneer of The Black Arts Movement her activism continued throughout the Black Power and the feminist movements of the 1970’s. Catlett later regained her American citizenship in 2002. Her monumental works of Malala Jackson and Ralph Ellison are awe inspiring, but her most iconic works are those of ordinary black women and mothers, which speak to obstacles she battled throughout her life.

Produced by Marie Wilkes and Directed by Kevin Kelley of New Mile Media Arts,

running time - 56:46

LINKS:
2 min STANDING STRONG Trailer: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/800114029

30 STANDING STRONG Teaser: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/797055290

This program is being held in collaboration with Azubuike African American Council for the Arts and is free to the public.