International Month of Black Women in the Arts – February 1, 2027

Expected International Month of Black Women in the Arts Deals

Throughout February, International Month of Black Women in the Arts inspires support for artists rather than traditional deals. Look for special exhibitions at galleries like The Studio Museum in Harlem and California African American Museum. Publishers such as Amistad Books and Third World Press often highlight works by Black women authors with special readings and promotions. Many cultural institutions, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, will host virtual and in-person events. Brands like Sephora and Target may feature collaborations with Black women artists or donate a portion of sales to arts non-profits. Support local Black women-owned art businesses and attend virtual workshops. We will update this page with confirmed live events and programs as February approaches.

History of International Month of Black Women in the Arts

As part of a renaissance of Black literature, the first examples of literature by Black women began surfacing around the 1850s in the U.S. These included Harriet Wilson’s “Our Nig;” or, “Sketches from the Life of a Free Black,” as well as the short stories written by Ellen Watkins Harper. In 1861, Harriet Jacobs published “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl,” a book that became the first autobiography written by a former female slave. The book chronicled the sad realities of the sexual exploitation perpetrated against Black women during the slavery era.

The creation of more artistic works by Black people continued on into the Civil War period. For instance, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper wrote “Sketches of a Southern Life” in 1872. Following the First World War, inspired by African traditions, Black artists began producing work with African influences. In 1914, Meta Warrick Fuller produced a sculpture called “Ethiopia’s Awakening” and even became the first Black woman to receive a federal commission for her art. The racial oppression in America that progressed into the 20th century did not shut down the artistic excellence of Black women. In 1972, Alma Woodsey Thomas became the first Black woman to have a solo exhibit of her paintings at the Whitney Museum.

In the 21st century, the systemic oppression of years now serves as a source of inspiration to artists who use their experiences to produce poignant and inspirational works of art.