Hale Woodruff (1900–1980) was an African American painter, muralist, and art educator. He was known for his contributions to African American art, particularly his involvement in the Harlem Renaissance and his dedication to depicting African American history and culture. Here are some key points about Hale Woodruff:1. **Early Life:** Hale Aspacio Woodruff was born on August 26, 1900, in Cairo, Illinois. His family moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he attended high school and showed an early interest in art.2. **Art Education:** Woodruff studied at the John Herron Art Institute in Indianapolis, Indiana, and later attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He continued his education in France at the Académie Scandinave and the Académie Moderne.3. **Harlem Renaissance:** Woodruff became associated with the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural and artistic movement celebrating African American achievements and creativity during the 1920s and 1930s.4. **Muralist:** Woodruff was known for his work as a muralist, creating large-scale paintings that often depicted scenes from African American history and culture. His murals conveyed a sense of pride, resilience, and the struggles faced by African Americans.5. **Works Progress Administration (WPA):** During the Great Depression, Woodruff worked on several mural projects as part of the WPA, a New Deal program that provided employment for artists. Notable among these is his mural at the Atlanta University Center.6. **Talladega College:** Woodruff played a significant role as an art educator. He joined the faculty of Talladega College in Alabama in 1931 and established the art department. He also created the Amistad Murals at the college, depicting the story of the Amistad slave revolt.7. **Ties to Mexico:** Woodruff spent time in Mexico, where he was influenced by the muralist movement, particularly the work of Diego Rivera. This influence is evident in his own mural projects.8. **Migration Series:** Woodruff created a series of paintings called the "Migration Series," which depicted the mass migration of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century. This series was inspired by the Great Migration.9. **Artistic Style:** Woodruff's artistic style evolved over the years, incorporating elements of modernism and social realism. His work often featured strong compositions, vivid colors, and a focus on storytelling.10. **Legacy:** Hale Woodruff's legacy is celebrated for his contributions to African American art, his dedication to education, and his commitment to using art as a means of cultural expression and historical documentation.11. **Death:** Hale Woodruff passed away on September 6, 1980, in New York City.Hale Woodruff's impact on African American art and his efforts to depict the rich history and cultural heritage of African Americans through his murals and paintings have left a lasting legacy.
Measures 36 x 30.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.