Laura Wheeler Waring

Early Life and Education

• Born: May 16, 1887, Hartford, Connecticut
• Parents: Reverend Robert Foster Wheeler and Mary (née Freeman) Wheeler
• Family Background: Her mother was involved in anti-slavery activities.
• Education: Graduated from Hartford Public High School in 1906. Studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, graduating in 1914.
• Early Career: Began teaching part-time in Philadelphia while studying.

Career and Artistic Development

• Teaching at Cheyney University: Taught art and music for over thirty years at Cheyney University, Pennsylvania, eventually becoming director of the art programs.
• European Travels (1914 & 1924): Received a scholarship to study in Paris (1914). A second trip to Europe in 1924 proved pivotal, leading to a shift in her artistic style towards more vibrant colors and realism.
• Artistic Style: Initially influenced by European masters like Monet, Manet, Corot, and Cézanne. Later developed a distinctive style characterized by realistic depictions with vivid color and atmosphere. Houses at Semur, France (1925) is considered a key work marking this stylistic shift.
• Harlem Renaissance Portraits: Commissioned by the Harmon Foundation to paint portraits of prominent African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. These portraits are among her most celebrated works.

Major Works and Subjects

• W. E. B. Du Bois (1948): A realistic oil painting capturing the wisdom and melancholy of the prominent intellectual.
• Little Brown Girl: A captivating portrait blending realism and impressionism, showcasing her skill with color and texture.
• Naomi Barnett Aden: A black and white portrait evoking dignity and contemplation through chiaroscuro.
• Portraits for the Harmon Foundation Exhibition (1928): Included portraits of significant African American figures like Mary White Ovington and James Weldon Johnson.
• Illustrations for The Crisis: Contributed illustrations to the NAACP’s magazine, celebrating the dignity of African American life.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Recognition: Exhibited her work in Paris and across America. Her portraits were displayed at institutions like the Corcoran Gallery, Brooklyn Museum, and Philadelphia Museum of Art.
• Influence on Black Artists: Waring's dedication to arts education and her portrayal of prominent African Americans helped inspire future generations of artists.
• Contribution to Civil Rights: Her portraits served as a powerful visual representation of African American achievement during the early civil rights movement.
• Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame Induction (1997): Honored for her commitment to teaching and art, and her influence on African American artists and teachers.
• Death: Died February 3, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.