Earl Hill

Place: New York

Born: 1927

Death: 1985

Biography:

Earl Hill was an African-American painter, illustrator, and educator born in New York City in 1927. He spent much of his youth in Bells Mill, a small town in rural Virginia, before returning to New York to attend New York University. Hill studied art with Hale Woodruff and graduated in 1951 with a degree in education.

Artistic Career

Earl Hill's work from the 1960s emphasizes the humanity of ordinary individuals and their experiences. His paintings feature figures isolated by a nonspecific background, engaged in everyday activities such as gardening, sitting, or quiet thinking. There is no content to distract the viewer from the figure that fills the frame. Hill's style is characterized by simplicity and a focus on the human form.

Education and Teaching

Hill went on to obtain his master's degree from the City College of New York in 1960. He taught art appreciation in public schools in New York, Baltimore, and the Virgin Islands while continuing to study painting at various institutions. Hill retired from teaching in 1984, a year before his death.

Notable Works and Collections

Some of Earl Hill's notable works can be found in collections such as The Museum Hill Collection in Washington, United States. This collection features various paintings from different artists and movements, providing an insightful look into the evolution of art throughout history.

Comparison to Other Artists

Earl Hill's style is reminiscent of other notable artists such as Winslow Homer, who is known for his Realist paintings. Homer's work, such as Northeaster, can be found in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Legacy and Influence

Earl Hill's contributions to the art world are significant, and his work continues to inspire artists today. His emphasis on the humanity of ordinary individuals and their experiences has influenced many artists, including Akinola Lasekan, who is known for his sculpture Iya Agba. Hill's legacy can also be seen in the work of other African-American artists such as Georgette Seabrooke, who was a muralist, artist, and educator.

• African-American art has a rich history, with many notable artists contributing to the movement.
• Earl Hill's work is an important part of this history, showcasing the experiences and humanity of ordinary individuals.
• His style and influence can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Akinola Lasekan and Georgette Seabrooke.

For more information on Earl Hill and his work, visit The Museum Hill Collection. You can also explore the collections of The Museum Hill Collection at Winslow Homer.