This exhibition honors the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Elizabeth Catlett (1915-2012) as an artist and cultural leader in Mexico, the United States, and, notably, New Orleans. A 2-year major monographic exhibition dedicated to her work is currently touring multiple cities, further cementing her impact on 20th-century art and bringing her long-overdue recognition in the mainstream art world. Scholars continue to explore her influence as a pioneering printmaker and sculptor of both American and African American art, while new books reaffirm her place in history. A fearless feminist and trailblazer, Catlett’s groundbreaking contributions were deeply rooted in her identity as a Black woman.

Catlett first came to New Orleans in 1941 to establish the art department at Dillard University, where she developed a deep and lasting connection to the city. She returned many times throughout her life, and New Orleans, in turn, recognized her brilliance. She was commissioned to create two monumental bronze sculptures—of Louis Armstrong and Mahalia Jackson—that now stand as centerpieces in Armstrong Park. While these works diverge from her usual focus on social and racial justice, they serve as powerful tributes, granting these American icons the recognition they long deserved from their birthplace.

The exhibition’s first in a series of talks on Elizabeth Catlett will be led by Catlett archivist and longtime family friend, Reverend Brenda B. Square. The discussion will be streamed live on STELLA JONES GALLERY’s Instagram January 11, 2025.

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For over two decades Stella Jones Gallery has played a pivotal role in highlighting the historical relevance of Black Art. We were selected as a 2018 Downtown NOLA Awards Honoree for bringing diversity to downtown New Orleans and are listed as a Cultural Landmark by “The Drum” newspaper and named by “Thrillist” as one of the four spots that have transformed the Arts District in NOLA’s hottest neighborhood.