University of Leeds
School of Fine Art, History of Art & Cultural Studies
IDENTITY
Waring became known for sensitive, realistic portraits of Black figures including leading cultural figures and worked as an art teacher at historically Black institutions. Her career sits squarely within the cultural and political moment known as the Harlem Renaissance, when Black artists sought to define their own image and voice.
She drew on classical portrait traditions learned in Europe (composition, poise, refined handling of paint) but used those techniques to celebrate Black identity and achievement.
Waring presents a young Black woman with dignity and selfhood.
Art can both construct the “Other” and help communities reclaim their image.
Girl in Pink Dress
Laura Wheeler Waring
American
1927
Oil on Canvas
81.9×53.3 cm
Waring’s portraits often center everyday Black life, countering the stereotypes and erasures common in mainstream art.
The girl’s calm expression invites us to meet her as an individual, not as a type or symbol.
Alice Dunbar-Nelson
(National Portrait Gallery)
Laura Wheeler Waring
American
1927
Oil on Canvas
62.4 × 51.4cm
Waring, a Black American artist, painted influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance with dignity and presence.
This portrait reflect two accomplished intellectual women whose friendship helped advance the rights of both women and African.
Alice Dunbar Nelson (1875–1935) was an American poet, writer, journalist, and political activist, recognized as an influential figure during the early Harlem Renaissance. Her work explored themes of race, gender, and social justice, emphasizing the experiences of Black women.
1887
Born in Hartford, Connecticut, USA (May 26).
1908
Entered the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
1914-17
Studied in Paris, France.
1920s
Became active during the Harlem Renaissance; painted portraits of Black Americans.
1927
Married Walter E. Waring.
1948
Died in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (February 3).