About the Art:
Stele
1963
Acrylic on found wood
38 x 7.75 x 8.5 inches
The Mildred Thompson Estate, Courtesy Galerie Lelong & Co.
Thompsons’ Stele is part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The vertical form and intricate pattern evoke a sense of energy and pride within the sculpture. The bold colors invite the viewer to engage with a deeper meaning and connection with the art piece. Thomson’s interest in physics and astronomy and through her own interpretation, sought to visually represent scientific theories and systems that are invisible to the eye. With the material’s texture, shape, and form provided multiple entry points to create metaphorical connections across history and memory, individuality and universality. Her use of the found materials used to create the sculpture have made her an influential woman in the art world.
About the Artist:
Mildred Thompson (American, b. 1936) was born in Jacksonville, Florida. Although she was mostly an abstract painter, she also showed talent in sculpture. She entered Howard University in 1953 where she began her formal training in art. She also studied abroad in Germany where she was well received in her abstract paintings. Upon returning to New York though, she had a strenuous time finding an audience for her work. Being black women with the growing racial tension in the 1960’s, she opted to return to Germany. It wasn’t until the 1970’s when she returned to the states and her work was included in many art galleries.