Happy Birthday to Artist and Educator Lois Mailou Jones
Artist Lois Mailou Jones was born November 3, 1905. In addition to her work as an award-winning and influential artist during the Harlem Renaissance, Lois also advocated for the recognition of black and international artists who might otherwise not be known. She also dedicated her time to activism during the Civil Rights Movement through her art in addition to protests.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts to middle-class parents, Lois loved art from an early age. On vacations with her family to Martha’s Vineyard, she spent time painting using watercolors. She attended the High School of Practical Arts in Boston in addition to taking night classes at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. At age 17, she had her first solo exhibition of her work.
In 1923, she began studying design at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts and in 1928 received her graduate degree from the Design Art School of Boston. The summer after graduation, she began focusing on painting and attended Harvard University.
After graduating, Lois decided she’d like to teach but due to the color of her skin, the Boston Museum School refused to hire her. Lois moved to North Carolina to work at the Palmer Memorial Institute prep school where she started an art department. In 1930, she joined the art department at Howard University where she taught design and watercolors until 1977.
During this time, Lois worked on her own art. She was also an advocate for African American artists and many African influences can be seen in her work. In 1937, Lois was invited to study in Paris at the Académie Julian for a year. During her time there, Lois completed over 30 watercolor paintings! This was just the beginning of her time traveling and documenting other cultures, which inspired much of her art. She lived in Haiti and also traveled to 11 African countries on a research grant. Much of Lois’ work was inspired by her time in Haiti and President Dwight D. Eisenhower even commissioned a portrait of the Haitian president and his wife from her.
In May 1970, Lois participated in a national day of protest against racism and the Vietnam War. Some of her work is seen as a commentary on political problems around the world during the time. Throughout the later portion of her life, she continued to receive recognition for her ongoing work with exhibitions and shows around the world. July 29, 1984, was declared Lois Jones Day in Washington, D.C. Lois also received honorary degrees from numerous universities for her work and influence.
Lois continued working up until her death in 1998 at the age of 92. She left a legacy which includes a scholarship fund at Howard University. Pieces from her prolific body of work are still displayed in museums and public buildings around the world. Thank you, Lois, for sharing your talent with the world!
