Alma Thomas (September 22, 1891 – February 24, 1978) was an American painter and educator who played a significant role in the Washington Color School, a group of artists in Washington, D.C., known for their exploration of color field painting. Thomas is celebrated for her abstract and vibrant compositions, often inspired by nature and her own experiences.Key points about Alma Thomas:1. **Early Life and Education:** Alma Thomas was born in Columbus, Georgia. She showed an early interest in art, and after graduating from high school, she attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she initially studied home economics. Later, she switched to fine arts and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1924.2. **Teaching Career:** Thomas had a long and influential career as an art educator. She taught art in Washington, D.C., public schools for more than three decades, serving as an art teacher and later as the chair of the art department at Shaw Junior High School.3. **Career Transition to Full-Time Artist:** In the 1960s, after retiring from teaching, Thomas focused on her career as a full-time artist. This period marked a significant shift in her artistic style and approach.4. **Washington Color School:** Thomas was associated with the Washington Color School, a group of artists in the 1950s and 1960s who were known for their exploration of color field painting. Other notable artists associated with the school included Morris Louis, Kenneth Noland, and Gene Davis.5. **Abstract Expressionism and Color Field Painting:** Thomas's work evolved from representational art to abstract expressionism and later to color field painting. She created vibrant and abstract compositions, often characterized by rhythmic patterns and bold use of color.6. **Inspiration from Nature:** Nature served as a significant inspiration for Thomas's work. Her paintings often reflected her observations of the changing seasons, flowers, and the beauty of the natural world. Her use of color and form conveyed a sense of joy and optimism.7. **Breakthrough Exhibition:** In 1972, Alma Thomas had a breakthrough solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. At the age of 81, she became the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the museum.8. **Later Recognition:** Thomas's contributions to the art world were increasingly recognized later in her life. She received various awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which she was posthumously awarded by President Barack Obama in 2015.9. **Legacy:** Alma Thomas is celebrated for her pioneering role as an African American woman in the world of abstract art. Her use of color and form, along with her distinctive style, have influenced subsequent generations of artists. Her legacy extends beyond her artistic achievements to her impact on art education and breaking barriers for African American artists.10. **Death:** Alma Thomas passed away on February 24, 1978, in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its innovation, beauty, and contribution to the development of abstract art.
Measures 34 x 44.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.