Lowenfeld at Hampton (1939-1946): Empowerment, Resistance, Activism, and Pedagogy

Abstract

Viktor Lowenfeld (1903-1960) has been abundantly documented as having influenced art teaching in the United States. Scarce attention, however, has been given to the significant and remarkable advancements he made to resist structures of institutionalized racism and promote inter-racial cooperation. Lowenfeld was a mentor to several notable African American artists, who participated in his art program at the Hampton Institute, a historically Black college in Virginia (now Hampton University). While recognized in African American art history texts, it has been largely understated in histories of art education even though extant archival materials authenticate this aspect of his career. This article, based on archival research, revises Lowenfeld’s story to include his connection to his African American students whose agency shaped the art world and helped create social change. It also raises questions concerning the collection, documentation, and preservation of the historical record in furthering knowledge about art education that reflects inclusivity, plurality, and social justice perspectives.