Paintings of Inspirational Artists & Professors: The Black Male Artist-Professor Series is a richly illustrated collection of portrait paintings, essays, and educational resources celebrating twenty-five distinguished Black male artist-professors whose contributions to visual art, education, scholarship, mentorship, and leadership have profoundly shaped the cultural and educational landscape of the United States. Created by visual artist, professor, and author Ligel Lambert between 2023 and 2026, this publication honors individuals whose influence extends far beyond their artistic achievements to the generations they have inspired through teaching, research, service, and creative practice.
The book features portrait paintings of Ligel Lambert, Sanford Biggers, Dr. James Rolling, Jr., Kerry James Marshall, Didier William, Jacob Lawrence, William T. Williams, Robert Reed, Derrick Adams, Meleko Mokgosi, Odili Donald Odita, Dr. Sharif Bey, Richard Mayhew, Mark Thomas Gibson, Dr. B. Stephen Carpenter II, Charles White, Stanley Whitney, Imo Nse Imeh, Larry Walker, Nick Cave, Glenn Ligon, David Driskell, Dr. Bernard Young, Joseph Norman, and Benjamin Leroy "Ben" Wigfall. Together, these artists represent multiple generations of artist-educators whose work has expanded opportunities, challenged conventions, and enriched conversations about art, culture, identity, history, and social responsibility.
Essay contributions by Ligel Lambert, Dr. Judith M. Burton, Dr. Wanda B. Knight, Dr. B. Stephen Carpenter II, Kyle M. Robertson, Dr. Stephen C. Newbold, Jr., Dr. Nicole P. Johnson, Dr. Brittany L. Myburgh, Dr. Zerric Clinton, Téa Chai Beer, Theresa Clowes, Dr. Mary Soylu, and Hopeton St. Clair Hibbert, Jr. provide additional scholarly insight into the significance of the series.
Drawing inspiration from Fauvism, Geometric Abstraction, Abstract Expressionism, and Symbolism, the portraits employ vibrant color, expressive mark-making, geometric structure, and symbolic imagery to convey each subject's character, accomplishments, and educational legacy. Accompanied by twenty-five educational posters derived from the series, this volume serves as both a visual archive and a tribute, preserving and celebrating the enduring impact of Black male artist-professors whose work continues to inspire, educate, and transform communities across generations.
