Black History Month: Trailblazers

We’re celebrating Black History Month by showcasing some local and international groundbreaking artists and innovators who’ve changed their communities and the world for the better. Tune in to this page throughout February for more information for each of the highlighted figures.

• + Martin Puryear:
  A sculptor who uses a variety of materials for his works, inspiring abstract forms that in turn evoke traditional and everyday elements that we find around the world.
  • – MoMA Record
  • – Art21 Record
  • – Matthew Marks Gallery + Selected Works

• + Garret Morgan:
  Inventor of the improved traffic signal and sewing machine, the blueprint for the modern gas mask,  and  much  more. His inventions paved the way for African American inventors today.
  • – Biography
  • – HISTORY Article on the Three-Position Traffic Signal
  • – National Inventors Hall of Fame

• + Paul R. Williams:
  Architect to the stars who designed over 3000 structures throughout his career. He was the first African American to become part of the AIA.
  • – Paul R. Williams Project
  • – Biography & Projects from the LA Conservancy
  • – Article on Paul R. Williams massive contributions to the LA architectural vernacular