Henry Ossawa Tanner was more than just a painter—he was a revolutionary force in the art world, breaking racial and artistic barriers. From the streets of Philadelphia to the salons of Paris, Tanner’s journey was one of resilience, faith, and relentless creativity. His work, infused with spirituality and realism, continues to influence generations of Black artists. But how did he navigate an art world that wasn’t built for him?

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Born in 1859 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Tanner grew up in a household where education and faith were deeply valued. His father was a minister and a bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, and his mother, Sarah Tanner, was a former enslaved person who had escaped to freedom through the Underground Railroad. This blend of intellectual rigor and spiritual devotion would later shape Tanner’s artistic themes.

From a young age, Tanner showed a passion for painting, often sketching scenes of everyday life. Despite the racial barriers of the time, he pursued formal training at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, where he studied under Thomas Eakins—one of America’s most renowned realist painters. Eakins’ emphasis on anatomical precision and the use of light profoundly influenced Tanner’s technique. However, the discrimination he faced as a Black artist in America was relentless, leading him to seek new opportunities abroad.

Abraham’s Oak (1905) by Henry Ossawa Tanner. Public domain image via Wikimedia Commons.

Paris: A New Artistic Home

In 1891, Tanner moved to Paris, where he found an artistic environment that was far more accepting than the one he had left behind. Unlike in the U.S., where racism stifled his career, French society evaluated artists based on their talent rather than their race. Tanner enrolled at the Académie Julian and immersed himself in the rich artistic culture of France, drawing inspiration from the works of the Old Masters and the emerging Symbolist movement.

It didn’t take long for Tanner to gain recognition. His painting The Resurrection of Lazarus (1896) received critical acclaim at the Paris Salon and caught the attention of major collectors. From that point on, he became a well-respected artist in France, frequently exhibiting his works and receiving commissions.

Spirituality and Signature Works

Faith was a central theme in Tanner’s work. Unlike many religious painters of his time who idealized biblical scenes, Tanner brought a sense of realism and humanity to his depictions. His figures had emotion, depth, and a tangible connection to the divine.

Two of his most famous early works, The Banjo Lesson (1893) and The Thankful Poor (1894), showcased intimate, dignified portrayals of Black life—something rarely seen in fine art at the time. Instead of caricatures or stereotypes, Tanner painted his subjects with a warmth and reverence that defied racial prejudices.

His religious masterpiece, The Resurrection of Lazarus, marked a turning point in his career. The painting, with its dramatic use of light and shadow, solidified Tanner’s reputation as a master of religious art. Later works such as The Annunciation (1898) and Nicodemus Visiting Jesus (1899) further demonstrated his ability to merge spiritual themes with a deeply personal, almost cinematic realism.

The Annunciation (1898) by Henry Ossawa Tanner. Public domain image via Wikimedia Commons.

Legacy and Influence

Henry Ossawa Tanner’s impact extends far beyond his own lifetime. He was the first African American painter to gain international acclaim, paving the way for countless Black artists who followed. Despite the barriers placed before him, he carved out a space in the art world where his talent could shine on its own merit.

Today, his works hang in major museums, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Musée d’Orsay. His paintings remain a testament to perseverance, faith, and artistic excellence. More importantly, they challenge us to consider how Black artists continue to navigate the art world today.

Tanner’s journey serves as a reminder: art has the power to transcend boundaries, and those who dare to challenge the status quo leave behind legacies that last for generations.

What Do You Think?

Which of Tanner’s works speaks to you the most? Do you see his influence in today’s Black artists? Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media using #BlackArtLegacy.

Source: Smithsonian American Art Museum, Musée d’Orsay