Thelma Johnson Streat

Thelma Johnson Streat

Thelma Johnson Streat was a trailblazing African-American artist who made significant contributions to the world of art and the Civil Rights Movement in the mid-twentieth century. Born in Yakima, Washington in 1911, Streat was a child prodigy who began drawing and painting at a young age. She went on to study at the University of Washington and the California School of Fine Arts, where she honed her skills as a painter and printmaker. Streat's work is characterized by its bold use of color, dynamic composition, and powerful symbolism. She drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including African art, jazz music, and the natural world. Her paintings and prints often featured images of African-American life and culture, as well as themes of social justice and political activism. In addition to her artistic achievements, Streat was also a dedicated activist who used her art to promote social change. She was a member of the NAACP and the National Council of Negro Women, and she often used her work to raise awareness about issues such as racial discrimination and segregation. One of her most famous works, the ten-panel mural The Wall of Respect, was created in collaboration with other artists and activists in Chicago in 1967. The mural depicted images of African-American heroes and icons, and it quickly became a symbol of the Black Power movement. Despite her many accomplishments, Streat's career was cut short by her untimely death in 1959 at the age of 47. However, her legacy lives on through her powerful and inspiring artwork, which continues to inspire and influence artists and activists to this day.

Thelma Johnson Streat, African-American artist, Civil Rights Movement, painter, printmaker, bold use of color, powerful symbolism, social justice, political activism, NAACP, National Council of Negro Women, The Wall of Respect, Black Power mov

— Charles King