Opinion  August 13, 2024  Megan D Robinson

7 Notable Artworks and Artists Associated with Howard University

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Author: abby
Wikimedia Commons, Derek E. Morton

Howard University, Washington D.C. - Founder's Library. License

Ranked as one of the best Historic Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in America, Howard University is often referred to as “The Harvard of HBCUs.” Established in 1867, Howard is one of 101 HBCUs in the United States and offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in over 120 programs. Most HBCUs were established in the 19th century, primarily to provide African Americans with high-quality higher education that they could not access elsewhere because of segregation and Jim Crow laws. 

A vital arts and culture resource, Howard’s motto is “Veritas et Utilitas; Excellence in Truth and Service is reflected in all that we do.” This focus on excellence has drawn renowned artists to its campus, both as students and as faculty. Howard is recognized for its outdoor sculptures and Gallery of Art, which has built a phenomenal collection of portraits, abstractions, photographs, and ethnographic compositions over the last nine decades. Here is a list of seven notable artworks on Howard’s campus and significant artists who have taught and learned at the school.

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Wikimedia Commons, Henry Ossawa Tanner
Return from the Crucifixion, by Henry Ossawa Tanner, 1936. In the collections at Howard University Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C. License
Henry O. Tanner’s "Return from the Crucifixion"

One of the Gallery’s earliest acquisitions, Henry O. Tanner’s Return from the Crucifixion is considered a jewel in its collections. The first African American painter to gain international acclaim, Tanner (1859–1937) studied in Paris. 

He traveled back and forth between France and the U.S. until 1903, when he and his family permanently relocated to France to avoid the U.S.’ racist policies. An accomplished, award-winning painter, Tanner’s latter work focused on religious subjects. Return was his last completed painting.

About the Author

Megan D Robinson

Megan D Robinson writes for Art & Object and the Iowa Source.