Alma Woodsey Thomas
1891 - 1978

Thomas was a kindergarten teacher, spending 35 years in the same classroom, before she began her full time career as an artist. 

She was a huge proponent of community involvement in the arts.

Thomas created art in her own home, often in her kitchen or on her sofa.

Alma Woodsey Thomas created artwork during a time of political and racial unrest yet her artwork rarely commented on those issues. Rather her work relied largely on color to make a statement. Her paintings are colorful and full of pattern.

It is said that she was the first woman in America to earn a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art. She received her Bachelors of Science in Fine Arts in 1924 from Howard University. 

Thomas was the first African-American woman to have her own solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art, along with showings in other notable galleries. Her paintings have been exhibited at the White House three times. 

Alma Woodsey Thomas was highly regarded by the art community of her time.