Malkia Roberts
American painter (1927–2004)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lucille Elizabeth Davis "Malkia" Roberts (1917–2004) was an American painter and educator known for her African-inspired themes and long career in Washington, D.C.[1] A graduate of Howard University and the University of Michigan, she taught in D.C. public schools for decades.[2] Roberts also held academic positions at several universities, including Howard. Influenced by her travels to Africa and studies in sociology, Roberts blended intellectual themes with vibrant artistic expression.[3] Her work was widely exhibited and remains in numerous public and private collections, reflecting her deep engagement with cultural heritage and artistic education.
Malkia Roberts | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 2, 1917 Washington, D.C. |
| Died | April 28, 2004 (age 87) Silver Spring, MD |
| Alma mater | University of Michigan Howard University |
| Known for | Painting |
| Notable work | "Out of the Blues" |
| Style | Abstract |
Life
Born in Washington, D.C., Roberts earned her bachelor's degree from Howard University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan.[2] Roberts taught for D.C. public schools throughout her career, including Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Shaw Junior High School, where she taught alongside Alma Thomas for forty years.[4] She held professorships of art and art history at D.C. Teachers College, State University of New York at Oswego, Washington Technical Institute and American University.[5] Roberts traveled extensively during her career, but much of her work was informed by African themes and topics.[3] Roberts also studied with Hale Woodruff and taught at Howard University from 1976 to 1985.[6] Roberts exhibited widely, and numerous private and public collections include her works.[2] According to Roberts, her studies heavily influenced her: "I have various degrees in Sociology which allow me to inject intellectual themes into my artistry."[7] In addition, her "travels to Africa ... greatly influenced [her] style and direction of work."[8]
