Faith Ringgold

Faith Ringgold is an American artist best known for her vibrantly colored scenes that often depict themes from American history and politics. Growing up in the creative and intellectual conext of the Harlem Renaissance and inspired by her contemporaries including writers, musicians, and artists, she is widely recognized for narrative works that, as she describes, "tell my story, or, more to the point, my side of the story," as an African American woman. For over five decades, Ringgold has challenged perceptions of African American identity and gender inequality. A fervent civil rights activist, she addresses controversial subject matter through a variety of media. The artist is also known for her children's books, which she writes and illustrates.