Joan Brown is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Her career spanned over five decades, during which she created a body of work that has become an important part of the history of American art. Brown was a painter, sculptor, and printmaker who primarily explored the human figure in her art. She was especially interested in how human emotions and experiences could be conveyed through her work. Her bold, expressive paintings, sculptures, and prints were heavily influenced by her own life experiences and observations. She also looked to the cultures of her African American heritage and other non-Western cultures for inspiration. Through her art, Brown sought to break down racial, gender, and class barriers and to challenge viewers to think about the human condition. Her art remains a powerful testament to her commitment to creating art that was meaningful and challenging.
Brown’s art is currently on display at SFMOMA. Read more about her work and the exhibit on our sister site, the Marina Times, here.