Joseph Delaney (artist) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Joseph Delaney
Born	1904 Knoxville, Tennessee, U.S.
Died	1991 Knoxville, Tennessee, U.S.
Education	Art Students League of New York
Movement	Harlem Renaissance, Works Progress Administration

Joseph Delaney (1904–November 21, 1991) was an important African American artist. He was known for his paintings that showed everyday life in New York City. He became a part of the exciting art scene in New York during a time called the Harlem Renaissance. This was a period when Black artists, writers, and musicians created amazing work.

Early Life and Art School

Joseph Delaney was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1904. He was one of ten children. His father was a Methodist minister, which is a type of religious leader. Joseph and his older brother, Beauford Delaney, both loved to draw. Joseph left school after ninth grade.

In 1930, Joseph moved to New York City. There, he joined the Art Students League of New York. This was a famous art school. He learned from well-known artists like Alexander Brook and George Bridgman. He also studied human anatomy with Thomas Hart Benton. Joseph said that Benton was a big influence on his art. In his free time, Joseph loved to sketch the people and places around him.

Art Career and Public Work

During the Great Depression, Joseph Delaney worked for the Works Progress Administration. This was a government program that helped people find jobs. He taught art classes to children. He also drew pictures of old silver pieces. In 1943, he joined a special painting division of the WPA.

After the WPA ended, Joseph received a grant from the Julius Rosenwald Fund. This grant helped him travel along the eastern coast in 1942 and 1943. He created a series of artworks showing the lives of Black workers. Later, in 1978 and 1979, he worked as a painter for another art project in New York City.

Joseph lived and worked in New York for many years. He often showed his art in Washington Square. This was a popular spot for artists to display their work.

In 1986, he moved back to Knoxville. He became an artist-in-residence at the University of Tennessee. He held this special position until he passed away in 1991. Joseph Delaney always stood against unfair treatment based on race. His art shows his deep care for everyday people.

His Art Legacy

Joseph Delaney's artwork is now in many important museums. You can find his pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Other museums include the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Museum of the City of New York.

In 1968, he wrote a small book. It was called Thirty-six Years Exhibiting in the Washington Square Outdoor Art Show. It shared his experiences as an artist in New York.

Art Exhibitions

Joseph Delaney's art has been shown in many places. Here are some of his exhibitions: