Howard University Lends Art by Pioneering Black Artist Elizabeth Catlett

Three works by the influential 20th century artist will be featured in an exhibition at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum in Annapolis.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Howard University announced that it will lend three works by acclaimed Black artist and alumna Elizabeth Catlett to the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum in Annapolis, Maryland. The exhibition, titled 'She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory,' will run through January 2027 and provide Howard students with hands-on museum studies experience.

Why it matters

Elizabeth Catlett is considered one of the most influential Black artists of the 20th century, known for her powerful sculptures and prints that explored themes of racial injustice and the experiences of African American women. This collaboration between Howard University and the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum highlights Catlett's legacy and the importance of showcasing the work of pioneering Black artists.

The details

The three works by Catlett that will be featured in the exhibition were created during her time as a student and faculty member at Howard University. The exhibition aims to honor Catlett's artistic vision and legacy as both an artist and educator.

  • The exhibition 'She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory' will open this weekend and run through January 2027.

The players

Elizabeth Catlett

A renowned African American artist and sculptor who is considered one of the most influential Black artists of the 20th century. Catlett was an alumna and former faculty member of Howard University.

Howard University

A private, federally chartered historically Black research university located in Washington, D.C. The university's Gallery of Art is lending three works by Elizabeth Catlett to the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum exhibition.

Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum

A museum located in Annapolis, Maryland that is hosting the exhibition 'She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory,' which will feature the works by Elizabeth Catlett on loan from Howard University.

Kathryn Coney-Ali

The co-executive director of the Howard University Gallery of Art.

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What they’re saying

“Elizabeth Catlett's work embodies the intersection of art, history and social responsibility that Howard University has long championed.”

— Kathryn Coney-Ali, Co-executive director of the Howard University Gallery of Art

What’s next

The exhibition 'She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory' will run through January 2027, providing Howard University students with hands-on experience in museum studies and programming.

The takeaway

This collaboration between Howard University and the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum highlights the enduring legacy of pioneering Black artist Elizabeth Catlett, whose powerful works explored themes of racial injustice and the experiences of African American women. By lending Catlett's art, Howard is ensuring her influential voice continues to be elevated and inspiring new generations.