Revolutionary visual artist Faith Ringgold has died at the age of 93

Faith Ringgold, a groundbreaking multidisciplinary artist, has died at the age of 93.

Ringgold’s practice included painting, soft sculpture, and prose, but her experiments with quilting made her unique in the art world. She turned static quilts into powerful stories about the civil rights movement, illustrating scenes of resilience, community and kindness. Using her visual skills allowed her to spread her thoughts into the world without the varnish of others’ plans.

Her talent earned her 23 honorary doctorates. Center for the Study of African American and African Diaspora Visual Arts and Culture David C. Driskell at the University of Maryland learning room dedicated to Ringgold’s cultural contributions.

Her sometimes autobiographical work inspired generations of artists to boldly engage in politics. For a few years, she didn’t receive the recognition she deserved from the mainstream art world, but that didn’t stop Ringgold from using self-expression to advertise justice. Eventually the culture caught up together with her courage.

Ringgold was born in Harlem, New York, but lived and worked in Englewood, New Jersey. She studied visual arts at City College of New York, earning two degrees in 1955 and 1959.

In November 2023 Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago an exhibition presenting 60 years of Ringgold’s work opened. The institution considered the show date to be “long overdue.”

Her presence has been appreciated by Black women in the arts, and her absence will probably be deeply felt.

“Through her amazing children’s books, quilts, paintings and textiles, she visually and boldly told our story; Black people, Black women, Black children,” said Lauren LeBeaux Craig, executive director of Newark Arts and former ED of Art at Atrium. “Her name must always be mentioned among the greats, and her contributions will live forever.”

“From the National Portrait Gallery to the partitions of the New Museum, Faith has woven threads of spirituality, identity and resilience into a worldwide tapestry. She leaves a strong mark on contemporary art, inspiring me and all creators to embrace our stories with courage and creativity.” – Talia Young, CEO Newark Symphony Hallsays ESSENCE.

“Faith Ringgold’s art was a powerful force of truth, resilience, and empowerment that illuminated the African American experience with unparalleled depth and beauty. Her narrative quilts and paintings gave voice to stories that have long been overlooked, particularly the stories of Black women, and challenged us to directly confront the complexities of our society,” said Taneshia Nash Laird, president and CEO, Greater Roxbury Arts and Cultural CenterBoston, MA in one other statement.

“Faith Ringgold’s art was a powerful force of truth, resilience, and empowerment that illuminated the African American experience with unparalleled depth and beauty. Her narrative quilts and paintings gave voice to stories that have long been overlooked, particularly the stories of Black women, and challenged us to directly confront the complexities of our society,” said Taneshia Nash Laird, president and CEO, Greater Roxbury Arts and Cultural CenterBoston, MA in one other statement.

“Faith Ringgold’s legacy is a testament to the power of art to inspire change, foster understanding and uplift communities. “She will forever be an icon whose impact will continue to echo through the generations she inspired to imagine and create a more just and compassionate world.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ringgold’s family, friends and everybody she inspired together with her creativity.