Augusta Savage

Have you heard of Augusta Savage?

A pioneering and inspirational sculptor, civil rights activist, and teacher associated with the Harlem renaissance. She forged a successful career in the arts winning numerous awards for work in France and the USA despite a lifelong fight for equal rights. She became the first African-American elected to the National Association of Women Painters and Sculptors and was one of only four women to receive a commission for the 1939 New York World's Fair exhibiting one of her signature works, the renowned sculpture Lift Every Voice and Sing (or The Harp). She also launched the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts where she was dedicated to mentoring a new generation of artists; "If I can inspire one of these youngsters to develop the talent I know they possess, then my monument will be in their work."