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Artwork by African American artists In honor of Black History month, we are featuring a selection of African American artists from the King County Public Art Collection. JACOB LAWRENCE "The Library." Silkscreen print © 1978 by Jacob Lawrence. King County Public Art Collection. [Enlarged view] "Games." Color photo of artist's rendering © 1979 by Jacob Lawrence. King County Public Art Collection. This photo depicts the rendering for the ceramic tile mural which was previously located at the Kingdome. [Enlarged view] Jacob Lawrence is widely recognized as a modern American master and one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. In a career that has spanned over sixty years, from Harlem to Seattle, Lawrence has portrayed scenes of African American history and life in an inimitable style that is distinguished by its bright colors and richly patterned compositions. ROBERT HORTON "Unmask Your Mind." Acrylic mural © 1993 by Robert Horton. [Enlarged view] Robert Horton is a Seattle artist who has participated in several public art projects. For this project, Robert drew on the diverse traditions of the neighborhood. Robert's intentions for this mural are to "celebrate differences," "become part of the community," and "to market the library commitments to the community". JAMES WASHINGTON, JR. "Eaglet." Stone carving © 1985 by James Washington, Jr. King County Public Art Collection. [Enlarged view] "James Washington, Jr." Black and white photo © 1985 by Mary Randlett. [Enlarged view] James Washington, Jr. is a nationally recognized painter and a sculptor in the Northwest tradition. A contemporary of Morris Graves and Guy Anderson, Mr. Washington studied with Mark Tobey. In 1989, the Bellevue Art Museum mounted a retrospective of his work and published a catalogue of the show entitled, "The Spirit in the Stone, The Visionary Art of James W. Washington, Jr." by Paul J. Karlstrom. Mr. Washington's residence and studio have been designated City of Seattle Landmarks. BRENDA JOHNSON "Untitled." Acrylic and pastel on paper © 1997, by Brenda Johnson. King County Public Art Collection. [Enlarged view] Brenda Johnson is a Seattle artist who draws on her own background to portray scenes of everyday life. Brenda describes her work as "reflecting the importance of family gathering, caring, support and sharing responsibility within each household. I try to emphasize the importance of social diversity in this society." JOESAM "Sunshower." Sculpture © 1993, by JoeSam. King County Public Art Collection. [Enlarged view] JoeSam is an artist whose fanciful and colorful sculptures are reminiscent of folk art and traditions. In this case, the artwork is actually a bench that provides a welcoming seat to the families who are patients at the County's regional health center.

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