Samella Lewis

Samella Lewis
Lewis in 1984
Born
Samella Sanders

(1923-02-27)February 27, 1923
DiedMay 27, 2022(2022-05-27) (aged 99)
EducationHampton Institute;
Hampton University;
Ohio State University
Occupation(s)Artist, art historian
SpousePaul Gad Lewis (m. 1948–2013; his death)
Children2

Samella Sanders Lewis (February 27, 1923 – May 27, 2022) was an American visual artist and art historian. She worked primarily as a printmaker and painter. She has been called the "Godmother of African American Art". She received Distinguished Artist Award for Lifetime Achievement from the College Art Association (CAA) in 2021.

“Art is not a luxury as many people think – it is a necessity.  It documents history – it helps educate people and stores knowledge for generations to come.” – Dr. Samella Lewis