Alma W. Thomas: Everything Is Beautiful

"Alma W. Thomas: Everything Is Beautiful" offers an expansive look into the life and legacy of Alma Thomas—an artist whose vibrant journey transcended the boundaries of race and gender to redefine American art. Published on August 17, 2021, in collaboration with The Columbus Museum and the Chrysler Museum of Art, this book delves into Thomas's emergence from semi-rural Georgia to a pioneering black female artist with a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum in 1972. It explores her impact within the Washington Color School and her affiliations with Howard University's creative circles. The volume is rich with essays that examine her meticulous study of color theory, her artistic evolution, and her multifaceted life as a teacher, community leader, and gardener. Illustrated with seldom-seen works like her theatrical designs and watercolors, this book not only showcases her artistic achievements but also highlights her lifelong commitment to beauty and social change. Ideal for college students studying education equity, racial justice, and gender equality, this narrative encourages readers to reflect on how one woman's pursuit of beauty and excellence helped shape a more inclusive and equitable cultural landscape.