David C. Driskell facts for kids

David C. Driskell (born June 7, 1931 – died April 1, 2020) was an important American artist and a smart scholar. He spent his life focusing on and celebrating African-American art. Driskell was a special professor, known as an emeritus professor, at the University of Maryland, College Park. He was born in a town called Eatonton, Georgia. In the year 2000, President Bill Clinton honored Driskell with a very special award called the National Humanities Medal. He was one of only 12 people to receive it that year.

The David C. Driskell Center at the University of Maryland, College Park was named after him. This center helps people learn about and appreciate African-American art.

Driskell passed away in a hospital in Hyattsville, Maryland on April 1, 2020. He was 88 years old and died from COVID-19.

Who Was David C. Driskell?

David C. Driskell was a famous artist and scholar.

David C. Driskell was more than just an artist. He was also a scholar, which means he studied and taught a lot about art history. He became a leading expert in African-American art. This type of art explores the rich history, culture, and experiences of Black people in America.

Driskell believed that African-American art was a very important part of American culture. He worked hard to make sure this art was recognized and respected. He helped museums collect and show works by Black artists.

His Amazing Art

Driskell created many beautiful artworks himself. His paintings often used bright colors and interesting shapes. He sometimes painted people and nature. Other times, his art was more abstract, meaning it showed feelings or ideas rather than clear pictures.

His art often reflected his heritage and his deep understanding of art history. He used different styles and techniques throughout his career. This made his work unique and exciting to look at.

Teaching and Inspiring Others

David C. Driskell taught art for many years at the University of Maryland, College Park. He was a beloved professor who inspired many young artists and scholars. He shared his knowledge and passion for art with his students.

He helped them understand the importance of art in society. He also encouraged them to explore their own creativity. His teaching helped shape a new generation of artists and art historians.

Awards and Recognition

Driskell received many honors during his life. The National Humanities Medal was one of the highest awards he got. This medal is given to people who have made a big difference in the humanities. The humanities include subjects like history, literature, and art.

The fact that a center at the University of Maryland is named after him shows how important he was. The David C. Driskell Center continues his work. It helps preserve and share the history of African-American art.

Images for kids

• 

  Woman with Flowers by David Driskell, 1972.

• 

  The University of Maryland, College Park Art Gallery celebrated its 50th anniversary on Feb. 24, 2016. Among those attending were President Wallace Loh and his wife, Barbara, on the left; and Prof. David C. Driskell, along with Prof. Dagmar R. Henney, on the right. Photo courtesy University of Maryland Art Gallery, used with permission.

• 

  Current Forms: Yoruba Circle (1969) at the National Gallery of Art's showing of Afro-Atlantic Histories in Washington, DC in 2022.

See also

In Spanish: David Driskell para niños