Mickalene Thomas

Mickalene Thomas (born 1971)

Born in Camden, New Jersey, Mickalene Thomas attended Yale University (MFA, 2002), and is a contemporary artist based in NYC. In her distinctive painting, Thomas explores the power of sexuality and the beauty of black women. Her work incorporates materials such as rhinestones, acrylic and enamel, which accentuate the female body and its surroundings. Among her several residencies and awards are the Asher B. Durand Award (2012), and Joan Mitchell Foundation Grant (2009).

Important Resource Materials

Landers, Sean, “Mickalene Thomas,” BOMB 116 (Summer 2011): 1-14.

Thomas, Mickalene, Lisa Melandri, Santa Monica Museum of Art and Brooklyn Museum of Art. Mickalene Thomas: Origin of the Universe. Santa Monica: Santa Monica Museum of Art, 2012.

JEN