The Fight for Civil Rights Through Art: Howardena Pindell’s Legacy

 Through her work, Philadelphia-born artist Howardena Pindell brings awareness to racial injustice towards black women in America. Growing up, Pindell often experienced microaggressions and racism from white individuals. Pindell’s art expresses her political affiliation, while also bringing awareness to issues such as sexism, war, and homelessnes. 


During a Zoom interview with Howardena Pindell, curator Valerie Cassel Oliver asks Pindell about her childhood, her artwork, and her legacy as a successful African American artist. 


Oliver starts by asking Pindell, “What was the moment you decided you wanted to become an artist?” Pindell believes her artistic success developed over a series of events. Her parents had repeatedly told her how talented she was and put her in art school at 8 years old, where she was the only black student attending. Many of the white teachers, however, discouraged her from pursuing art. Some parents were so outraged by the idea of their children being in school with a black child that they transferred their children to a different school. Pindell proved these statements wrong and attended Yale University as a young adult. As Pindell reached adulthood, she realized that the art world was very sexist and racist. 


Oliver turns the conversation to focus on Pindell’s work and her creative process. Oliver asks, “How have you endeavoured in works over time?” Pindell claims that she was always attracted to textures and circles and she frequently used hole punches. Many of her works such as Nautilus #1 (2014-15) and Labyrinth (Versailles) (2017) consist of circular elements and thick textures. Due to a car accident which damaged her short and long-term memory, Pindell couldn’t remember exactly  how she started incorporating the hole punches into her work. 


Oliver finishes the interview by asking Pindell  about her legacy.  Pindell claims that her work speaks for itself as her constant battle against racism in America is strongly represented in it. Pindell also reminded the audience to “be careful who you let into your studio”. 


Howardena Pindell is a strong artist who fought back against social injustice and racism against African Americans. Her artwork is not only a form of self-expression, but it  is also her weapon in fighting against racism in America. 



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MZo5LNDk90

Free, White and 21 (1980)

Film, 11’45”


Nautilus #1, 2014-2015

Mixed media on canvas


Labyrinth (Versailles), 2017 

Mixed media on canvas

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