Charles Mills (artist, born 1920) facts for kids

Charles Norman Mills (born December 14, 1920 – died October 20, 2009) was an amazing African-American artist. He painted beautiful pictures on canvases and created huge murals on walls. His art often showed important moments in African-American history and culture. His most famous work is probably the "Wall of History." This giant mural tells the story of African-American history. You can find it at the entrance to Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Charles Norman Mills was born in New York City on December 14, 1920. He grew up in Harlem, a famous neighborhood in New York. As a young person, he went to an arts high school in Manhattan.

Mills loved learning about his heritage. He often visited a special collection of books. These books were all about African-American culture and history. This collection later became part of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. This place helps people learn about Black history.

Art, Military, and Medical Work

Mills served in the United States Army. After his time in the military, he worked as a medical illustrator. This means he drew pictures for medical books. He worked at a VA Medical Center in Brooklyn. His daughter said this job "brought out the art in him."

He spent 20 years drawing and illustrating medical books. But he also wanted to create fine art. He took classes at The Career School of Commercial Illustration. He also studied at the Brooklyn Museum. Many of his artworks were shown in galleries in New York City.

Moving to Florida and Famous Murals

In 1985, Mills moved to South Florida. He settled in Fort Lauderdale. He continued to paint and teach art. He taught at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. His paintings were shown in many local galleries and museums.

His most famous work is the "Wall of History" mural. The City of Fort Lauderdale asked him to create it. It's at the entrance to Sistrunk Boulevard. This mural tells the story of African-American people. It shows their journey from slavery to modern times. Many people think it is his greatest work.

In 2009, the Jim Moran Foundation honored him. They recognized him as an African-American Achiever. This was for his six decades of painting. They also honored him for focusing on the African-American experience in his art.

His Legacy

Charles Norman Mills passed away on October 20, 2009. He was 88 years old. He died at a hospice in Pembroke Pines, Florida. He left behind his wife, Thelma. He also had two daughters, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. His art continues to inspire people. It helps them learn about African-American history and culture.