Ernest Crichlow facts for kids

Ernest Crichlow was an American artist who lived from 1914 to 2005. He was known for his "social realist" art. This type of art often showed real-life struggles and important social issues. Crichlow used his art to highlight important messages about society and people's lives.

Early Life and Art Start

Ernest Crichlow was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1914. His parents had moved there from Barbados. He loved art and studied it at two places in New York: the School of Commercial Illustrating and Advertising Art, and New York University.

Crichlow began his art career with help from the Federal Art Project. This project was part of the Works Progress Administration, a government program that helped artists during tough economic times. A famous artist named Augusta Savage also supported Crichlow early on. She helped many artists during the Harlem Renaissance, a time when Black artists, writers, and musicians created amazing works.

Artistic Journey and Famous Works

Crichlow had his very first art show in 1938. It was held at the Harlem Community Center in Harlem, New York. One of his most well-known pieces is a lithograph called Lovers III. This artwork shows a young Black woman and hints at the unfairness and challenges faced by people during that time.

His art was shown at big events like the 1939 New York World's Fair. The next year, his work was even displayed in the Library of Congress. Over the years, his paintings and prints were often seen in top art galleries across the United States, especially in the Northeast. He also had two shows at Clark Atlanta University in the 1940s.

Later in his career, Crichlow's work was recognized by President Carter. A notable painting from 1967, White Fence, shows a young white girl separated by a fence from five Black girls. This piece, like many of his works, explored themes of division and connection. He also created a large 25-panel mural at Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn.

Illustrator, Teacher, and Founder

Crichlow was also a talented illustrator for children's books. He created the artwork for books like Two in a Team, Maria, Lift Every Voice, and Magic Mirrors. His illustrations helped bring these stories to life for young readers.

In 1969, Crichlow helped start the Cinque Gallery. He founded it with two other important artists, Norman Lewis and Romare Bearden. This gallery was created to support and showcase the work of Black artists. Crichlow also shared his knowledge by teaching art at New York University and the Art Students League of New York.

Ernest Crichlow lived in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. He passed away on November 10, 2005, at the age of 91.