Augusta Savage

Sculptor, Educator & Champion of Black Artists

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Role:

Artist & Sculptor

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The Story

Augusta Savage was a pioneering sculptor, educator, and advocate whose work challenged the exclusion of Black artists from the American art world. During the Harlem Renaissance, she created powerful portraits and sculptures that celebrated Black identity while using her influence to open doors for generations of artists who followed.

Quick Facts

Born

February 29, 1892

Died

March 26, 1962

Known For

Sculptor and portrait artist Harlem Renaissance Teaching and mentoring Black artists Founding the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts Advocating for racial equality in the arts Creating opportunities for Black artists

Life & Legacy Timeline

1892 — Born
Born Augusta Christine Fells in Green Cove Springs, Florida.

1915 — Moves to Jacksonville
Begins pursuing opportunities to develop her artistic talent.

1921 — Moves to New York
Travels to New York to study art and pursue a career as a sculptor.

1929 — Studies in Paris
Receives a scholarship to study at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris after facing racial barriers in American art institutions.

1930s — Harlem Renaissance
Becomes an important figure in the Harlem Renaissance, creating portraits and mentoring emerging Black artists.

1937 — Harlem Community Art Center
Becomes director of the Harlem Community Art Center, expanding access to art education for the Black community.

Legacy

Augusta Savage’s greatest legacy extends beyond the sculptures she created. She used her art, teaching, and advocacy to challenge barriers facing Black artists and helped build spaces where Black creativity could flourish. Her influence can be seen in the generations of artists who gained greater opportunities because she insisted that Black art belonged in America’s cultural institutions.

A Quote to Remember

"The Negro artist has been handicapped by lack of opportunity."

- Augusta Savage

Why This Matters

Augusta Savage reminds us that changing culture is not only about creating great work—it is also about creating opportunities for others. At a time when Black artists faced widespread exclusion, Savage fought for recognition, taught aspiring artists, and built spaces where Black creativity could thrive. Her story shows how art can become both an expression of identity and a tool for opening doors.

Sources & Further Reading

Smithsonian American Art Museum — Augusta Savage
Biography, artwork, exhibitions, and archival information about Augusta Savage’s life and career.

Smithsonian American Art Museum — Gamin
Learn about Savage’s celebrated 1929 sculpture and its significance within her work and the Harlem Renaissance.

Smithsonian Institution — Renaissance Woman: Augusta Savage
An overview of Savage’s career as a sculptor, teacher, and community art leader.

Smithsonian Institution — The Monumental Imagination of Augusta Savage
A Smithsonian Sidedoor episode exploring Savage’s life, work, and vision for creating public monuments honoring Black Americans.

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