Augusta Savage – The Famed Harlem Renaissance Sculptor
Augusta Savage was a pioneering African American sculptor and influential arts educator whose work and legacy significantly impacted the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. Born in Florida in 1892, Savage faced considerable racial and gender barriers throughout her career but persevered to become one of the most important figures in 20th-century American art. Her sculptures, often depicting African American themes and figures with profound dignity and grace, reflect her commitment to social justice and cultural representation. Notably, her piece The Harp, created for the 1939 New York World’s Fair, remains a celebrated example of her artistic vision and technical skill. Beyond her artistic achievements, Savage founded the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts, mentoring and inspiring a new generation of artists, including Jacob Lawrence and Gwendolyn Knight.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Augusta Savage was a leading sculptor and educator during the Harlem Renaissance.
- Her studio was crucial in developing many young artists.
- Savage was a powerful advocate for African American artists and women.
Early Life and Education
| Birth | February 29, 1892 |
|---|---|
| Death | March 27, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Green Cove Springs, Florida, United States |
| Genre of Work | Sculpture and the Harlem Renaissance |
Augusta Savage was a groundbreaking sculptor and educator who left an indelible mark on the art world during the Harlem Renaissance. Born in Green Cove Springs, Florida, in 1892, she faced numerous challenges, including racism and gender discrimination. Defying these barriers, she became a prominent figure and mentor, nurturing the artistic talents of a new generation.
Savage’s early life was filled with artistic curiosity, as she began creating figures from clay found in her hometown. Her passion led her to pursue formal education in New York, where she developed her skills and forged connections with other artists. Her studio became a vital hub for artistic development, influencing many future leaders in the field. Throughout her career, Augusta Savage created notable works that continue to inspire. Her piece, The Harp, inspired by the song Lift Every Voice and Sing, remains iconic. Beyond her artistic achievements, she was a fierce advocate for African American artists and women in the arts, ensuring their voices were heard.
Childhood in the South
Augusta Savage was born Augusta Christine Fells in Green Cove Springs, Florida. She grew up in a large family near Jacksonville. From an early age, she showed a keen interest in creating art. The red clay soil of her native Florida became her first medium, and she molded figures from it as a child. Savage’s family was not wealthy. Her father, a Methodist minister, initially disapproved of her artistic interests.
Despite this, she persisted, honing her skills with the natural materials available around her home.
Artistic Talent Emergence
By her teenage years, Augusta’s talent was undeniable. At 15, she married John T. Moore, who passed away shortly after, leaving her a young widow. She continued to pursue her art, creating more intricate and expressive clay figures. Her resilience in the face of personal and societal challenges set the stage for her future success. In 1919, Savage’s work was recognized when she was given a booth at the Palm Beach County Fair. There, she won a $25 prize and a ribbon for the most original exhibit. This recognition was an early indicator of her burgeoning talent and potential.
Move to New York and Cooper Union Studies
Encouraged by early successes, Augusta moved to New York in 1921, seeking greater opportunities. She applied to Cooper Union, one of the most prestigious art schools in the United States, and was accepted in 1922 out of 142 applicants. She received a scholarship to cover her tuition. At Cooper Union, she excelled, completing the four-year program in just three years. Her time in New York was transformative, providing her with formal training and exposing her to a broader artistic community.
Here, she began to connect with other artists and art patrons who would be crucial in her career.
Mature Period
After completing her studies, Augusta continued to work and established herself as a significant sculptor. Her works often included portrait busts of notable African-American figures, capturing their likeness and spirit. Her piece, Gamin, created in the late 1920s, is one of her most famous works. This sculpture won her a prestigious fellowship to study in Paris. Savage’s time in Paris further refined her skills, and she gained international exposure.
Later Period and Death
Returning to New York from Paris, Savage became deeply involved in Harlem’s burgeoning cultural scene. She was a key figure during the Harlem Renaissance, contributing both as an artist and an educator. In the 1930s, she established the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts. She later directed the Harlem Community Art Center. Despite financial struggles, she remained a dedicated advocate for African-American artists throughout her life. Augusta Savage passed away on March 27, 1962, in New York.
Her legacy endures through her contributions to art and her efforts to pave the way for future generations of African-American artists.
Artistic Career
Augusta Savage’s career was shaped by her dedication to art and her interactions with other prominent figures and institutions. Key periods include her training in Paris and collaborations with influential African American leaders.
Paris Sojourn and Further Training
In 1929, Augusta Savage received a Carnegie Foundation Grant to study in Paris. She attended the Académie de la Grande Chaumière, one of the most prestigious art schools in the city. While in Paris, she exhibited her work and gained critical acclaim, further refining her skills and artistic voice. Savage’s time in Paris significantly influenced her work. She focused on themes of social justice and African American identity, drawing inspiration from both European modernism and African art traditions.
Her exposure to diverse artistic styles and techniques helped her to develop her unique approach to sculpture.
Collaborations and Influences
Augusta Savage was deeply involved in the Harlem Renaissance and worked alongside figures like Marcus Garvey and W. E. B. Du Bois. She became a leader in the African American art community, using her platform to support other Black artists and promote cultural pride. One of her notable works is The Harp, also known as Lift Every Voice and Sing, created for the New York World’s Fair in 1939. This sculpture celebrated African American heritage and music. Savage also founded and directed the Harlem Community Art Center, where she mentored numerous artists. She participated in the National Association of Women Painters and Sculptors and created famous works such as Gamin, a sculpture of a young boy that captures the spirit and resilience of youth.
Notable Artworks by Augusta Savage
Augusta Savage was a significant figure in the Harlem Renaissance, known for her sculptures and contributions to the arts community. Here are some of her notable early works and major commissioned pieces that solidified her legacy. Savage’s early works often reflected her keen observation of human emotions and expressions. One of her first recognized pieces was a clay bust of W.E.B. Du Bois, which she created while studying in New York. Her exhibition in 1929 showcased several of her sculptures, earning her acclaim, especially for her realistic portrait busts. Despite financial struggles, Savage managed to study at the prestigious Cooper Union. Her talent quickly became evident, and she received numerous awards.
She continued to produce striking sculptures, often focusing on African-American themes and subjects.
Prominent Commissions and Works
Among Savage’s most famous works is the sculpture Gamin, a bust of a young African-American boy. This piece garnered significant attention, showcasing her exceptional skill in capturing the youthful spirit and resilience. Gamin received a distinction at the Harmon Foundation competition, further establishing her reputation. Another notable work is The Harp, also known as Lift Every Voice and Sing, unveiled at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. This large sculpture depicted a group of African-American singers and was a powerful representation of hope and unity. It was unfortunately destroyed after the fair, but photographs and descriptions of it remain revered.
Role in the Harlem Renaissance
Augusta Savage was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, shaping the period with her art and impact on future artists through her teaching. Augusta Savage was a leading sculptor of the Harlem Renaissance. She created art that reflected the African American experience, using her talent to highlight racial injustices and promote cultural pride. Her well-known work, The Harp, was showcased at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. This piece symbolized African American spirituals, bringing attention to the rich history and culture of Black Americans. Her art was characterized by compassion and a deep respect for her subjects, capturing their dignity and strength. More than just an artist, Savage was an advocate for African American artists.
She fought for equal rights within the arts, ensuring that Black artists had the opportunities and resources needed to develop their craft.
Establishment of Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts
In 1932, Savage opened the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts in Harlem. This became a central hub for aspiring African American artists. The studio provided affordable art classes and materials, making art education accessible to the Black community. Notable artists like Jacob Lawrence, Norman Lewis, and Gwendolyn Knight studied under her guidance. The studio fostered a sense of community among Black artists, encouraging collaboration and mutual support. Savage’s role as an educator was pivotal. She nurtured the talents of many artists who would later become influential figures in the American art scene. Thus, her studio played a critical role in both the Harlem community and the broader cultural movement.
Advocacy and Education
Augusta Savage was an influential force in both advocating for racial equality in the arts and educating future generations of artists. She left a significant impact through her teaching and community involvement. Savage fervently battled racism throughout her career, seeking to create opportunities for African American artists. She confronted discriminatory barriers head-on, applying multiple times to attend art schools that initially rejected her due to her race. Eventually, her talent was recognized, and she became a trailblazer in her field. Her activism extended beyond her personal achievements. She worked closely with the NAACP and forged strong relationships with other African American leaders like James Weldon Johnson.
These efforts helped pave the way for greater inclusion and representation in the arts.
Mentorship and Teaching
As an educator, Savage dedicated much of her life to mentoring young artists. She began teaching in Harlem, where she inspired many students to follow their artistic passions. Her teaching went beyond technical skills; she emphasized the importance of cultural heritage and identity. Savage’s students included future notable artists who would continue to celebrate and explore African American themes in their work. She provided a nurturing environment, challenging her students while also offering them the support they needed to succeed.
Harlem Community Art Center
In 1937, Augusta Savage co-founded the Harlem Community Art Center, a key institution during the Harlem Renaissance. This center became a hub for artists, offering classes, exhibitions, and a space for artistic collaboration. It played a crucial role in the artistic education of the Harlem community, broadening access to the arts for many who were historically marginalized. The center’s programs helped cultivate a new generation of African American artists and enriched the cultural fabric of Harlem. Savage’s leadership at the center showcased her commitment to community building and artistic development.
Through her advocacy and educational efforts, Augusta Savage made enduring contributions to the art world and the fight for racial equality.
Later Life and Legacy
In her later life, Augusta Savage faced personal and professional challenges but continued to make significant contributions to the arts. Her legacy endures through her impactful work and influence on future generations. Augusta Savage faced numerous struggles in her later years. Despite her early success, she found it challenging to sell her work during the Great Depression. The economic downturn made it difficult for many artists, including Savage, to sustain their careers. She moved to Saugerties, New York, in 1945, seeking a quieter life. Health issues, including cancer, plagued her final years. Savage spent her last years in relative obscurity in West Palm Beach, Florida. She passed away on March 27, 1962. Savage’s financial difficulties and health issues marked a difficult end to a remarkable career.
Her contributions, though not fully recognized during her lifetime, laid the groundwork for future recognition.
Posthumous Recognition
After her death, Augusta Savage’s work began to gain more significant recognition. Exhibitions of her sculptures have been held in various museums, shedding light on her contributions to the art world. Her sculpture, The Harp, created for the 1939 New York World’s Fair, is one of her most celebrated works. Savage’s legacy is now recognized in art history, and her work is included in many major collections. The art community has come to appreciate her role in the Harlem Renaissance and her efforts to achieve social change through her art. Savage received posthumous honors, including exhibitions that highlighted the importance of her work and influence.
Influence on Future Generations
As a teacher and mentor, Augusta Savage influenced many future artists. Her studio was a hub for young African American artists, and she provided support and encouragement to her students. Her impact on students like Ellis Ford and others helped shape the next generation of artists. The legacy of Savage’s teaching extends beyond her studio to broader movements in art and social change. The Rosenwald Fellowship, which she received, is a testament to her influence and contribution. Savage’s dedication to equal rights in the arts paved the way for future generations of African American artists, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
Augusta Savage’s enduring legacy lies not only in her remarkable sculptures but also in her dedication to nurturing future generations of artists. Her work broke barriers and challenged the exclusionary practices of the art world, paving the way for greater representation of African American artists. Through her studio and teaching, she played a critical role in the Harlem Renaissance, fostering a vibrant cultural community and influencing countless artists who followed in her footsteps. Augusta Savage’s life and art exemplify resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of art to inspire social change and cultural pride. Her contributions continue to be celebrated, reminding us of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Notable Accomplishments of Augusta Savage?
She played a key role in the Harlem Renaissance, inspiring and mentoring many young Black artists. In 1939, she was commissioned to create The Harp for the New York World’s Fair. She also established the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts, providing opportunities for African-American artists to train and showcase their work.
Which Famous Works Are Attributed to Augusta Savage?
One of her most famous sculptures is The Harp, inspired by James Weldon Johnson’s song, Lift Every Voice and Sing. Another well-known piece is Gamin, a small bust of a young boy. Her work often portrayed African-American life and culture with compassion and realism.
How Did Augusta Savage’s Character Traits Influence Her Art?
Savage’s determination and resilience were central to her success. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, she pursued her passion for sculpture. Her dedication to social justice and education greatly influenced her efforts to uplift and support other Black artists.
What Events Marked the Later Years of Augusta Savage’s Life?
In her later years, she faced financial difficulties and health issues, which led to her retreat from the public eye. She moved to a farm in upstate New York, where she continued to create art on a smaller scale. Despite these challenges, her legacy has endured through her contributions to American art and culture.
Isabella studied at the University of Cape Town in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English Literature & Language and Psychology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. Building on from her art history knowledge that began in high school, art has always been a particular area of fascination for her. From learning about artworks previously unknown to her, or sharpening her existing understanding of specific works, the ability to continue learning within this interesting sphere excites her greatly.
Her focal points of interest in art history encompass profiling specific artists and art movements, as it is these areas where she is able to really dig deep into the rich narrative of the art world. Additionally, she particularly enjoys exploring the different artistic styles of the 20th century, as well as the important impact that female artists have had on the development of art history.
Learn more about Isabella Meyer and the Art in Context Team.
Cite this Article
Isabella, Meyer, “Augusta Savage – The Famed Harlem Renaissance Sculptor.” Art in Context. July 8, 2024. URL: https://artincontext.org/augusta-savage/
Meyer, I. (2024, 8 July). Augusta Savage – The Famed Harlem Renaissance Sculptor. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/augusta-savage/
Meyer, Isabella. “Augusta Savage – The Famed Harlem Renaissance Sculptor.” Art in Context, July 8, 2024. https://artincontext.org/augusta-savage/.
