Henry Ossawa Tanner

Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859-1937) was an American artist who gained international recognition for his paintings. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to a religious African-American family. Tanner initially studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts before moving to Paris in 1891, where he continued his artistic education at the Académie Julian. Inspired by the French realist and Barbizon schools, he developed a unique style that incorporated elements of European and African-American art. Tanner’s subjects included biblical scenes, genre paintings, and landscapes, often exploring themes of faith and spirituality. His works were well-received and exhibited in prestigious galleries and international exhibitions, earning him praise throughout his career. Despite racial discrimination in the United States, Tanner’s achievements as an African-American artist paved the way for future generations. Today, he is celebrated as one of the pioneers of African-American art.