Washington, D.C. (April 15, 1915 -April 2, 2012) age 97

Elizabeth Catlett Mora was an African American graphic artist and sculptor. She was best known for her depictions of the African American experience in the 20th century. Her work often focused on the female experience. Catlett devoted much of her career to teaching. It was difficult for a Black woman to pursue a career as a working artist. She was awarded a fellowship in 1946. This award allowed her to travel to Mexico City. In Mexico City, she settled and worked with the Taller de Grafica Popular (People’s Graphic Workshop) for twenty years. She became head of the sculpture department for the Escuela Nacional de Ares Plasticas. In 1947, she married Mexican artist Francisco Mora, and made Mexico her permanent home, later becoming a Mexican citizen.