Augusta Savage was born on February 29, 1892 in Green Cove Springs, Florida. She grew up in poverty, facing discrimination and limited opportunities due to her race. Despite these challenges, she showed a talent for art from a young age, often molding clay figures from the red clay soil near her home.
As a young woman, Augusta Savage moved to New York City to pursue her passion for art. She attended Cooper Union and later studied under renowned sculptor George Brewster. In 1921, she opened her own studio in Harlem, where she began to gain recognition for her work.
Some of Augusta Savage's most famous sculptures include "Gamin," a portrait of a street urchin that won a prestigious prize at an exhibition in Paris, and "The Harp," a symbol of African American cultural identity. She also created busts of prominent figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois and Marcus Garvey, as well as the iconic "Lift Every Voice and Sing" monument.
Throughout her career, Augusta Savage used her art as a platform to advocate for equal rights and social justice. She was a vocal supporter of the Civil Rights movement and fought against racial discrimination in the art world. In 1934, she became the first African American artist to be elected to the National Association of Women Painters and Sculptors.
Augusta Savage's impact on the art world and the fight for equality continues to be celebrated today. Her pioneering work as a sculptor and her relentless advocacy for social change have inspired generations of artists and activists. In recognition of her contributions, a street in Harlem has been named Augusta Savage Way in her honor.
Augusta Savage's personal life was marked by struggles and triumphs. She was briefly married to James Savage before marrying Robert Lincoln Poston in 1923. Despite facing obstacles as a black woman artist, she found success and fulfillment in her work and her advocacy efforts.
In her later years, Augusta Savage continued to create art and mentor young artists. She passed away on March 27, 1962, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and empower others to this day.