Sylvia Snowden: Painting Life with Color and Emotion
Sylvia Snowden is an artist with a profound curiosity about the human condition. Her active and engrossing paintings hover delicately between figuration and abstraction, evoking abundant movement and energy. Standing before her artworks feels electric, as if something within you is being activated, stirring previously suppressed emotions to attention.
I had the pleasure of meeting Snowden in November after her solo exhibition opened at White Cube New York. Titled “On the Verge,” the exhibition showcases 20 of her paintings across two floors, on view through December 19. Our conversation began with her love for color and its power, a lesson instilled in her by her mother, who had a deep appreciation for vibrant hues. “Color is life,” Snowden declared. “Without color, what would you have?”
The heart of the exhibition lies in her “M Street” series, abstractly rendered portraits of bodies with engorged extremities. Although not depictions of specific individuals, they are named after her neighbors on M Street in Washington, DC, where she has resided since 1978 and raised her children. These paintings reveal something universal about the nuances of human emotion.
Snowden’s artistic roots trace back to her upbringing on the campuses of Dillard University and Southern University in New Orleans, where her parents introduced her to the world of art. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees from Howard University in the 1960s. There, she studied under renowned artists such as James A. Porter, Loïs Mailou Jones, and James Lesesne Wells, influential figures in midcentury Black art. Her work has been exhibited at prestigious institutions like the National Gallery of Art, Baltimore Museum of Art, and Montclair Art Museum.
At 83 years old, Snowden continues to paint every day. Her approach to texture, which she views as both visual and tactile, has been evolving since she was four years old. Using acrylic paint and oil pastels on masonite, a method she developed during a residency in Australia, Snowden creates artworks that are thrilling impastos with a sculptural quality. She aptly describes these explosions of color that physically undulate from the canvas as “structural abstract expressionism.”
During our conversation near White Cube in Manhattan, we delved into her education, family, and the significance of making that first mark on canvas. Snowden’s words have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Hyperallergic: Let’s start at the beginning. How did you discover your passion for painting?
Sylvia Snowden: My mother, Jessie B. Snowden, introduced my brother and me to painting and color at a young age. She instilled in us a love for color, and we began by using coloring books. My brother eventually pursued law, leaving art behind, while I remained dedicated to painting. Attending Howard University’s College of Fine Arts was a transformative experience for me. The department of art, led by James A. Porter, was a profound teaching experience that shaped my understanding of art and life.
Porter encouraged me to speak about my work, a challenge I initially struggled with. He emphasized the importance of articulating one’s artistic vision, a skill I eventually honed over time. His guidance led me to the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, where I received a first-place award. This recognition further fueled my passion for painting and sculpting.
Snowden’s journey as an artist is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft and her deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of color and emotion. Through her vibrant and dynamic artworks, she continues to captivate audiences and inspire fellow artists to explore the boundless possibilities of self-expression. Last night, the White Cube gallery hosted an opening event that attracted a diverse group of art enthusiasts. Among the attendees were Sylvia Snowden, a renowned artist whose work was on display at the gallery. In a candid interview, Snowden shared insights into her creative process and artistic journey.
When asked about her early influences, Snowden mentioned David Driskell, a mentor who played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic vision. She fondly recalled her time at Black Howard University, where she was exposed to various art forms, including fresco painting. Snowden emphasized the importance of that initial mark on a blank canvas, highlighting the significance it holds in the creation process.
As a proponent of “structural abstract expressionism,” Snowden explained how her work explores the intersection of form and expression. She described her art as a continuous evolution, with each painting in a series contributing to a broader narrative. Snowden’s series inspired by M Street reflects her desire to honor forgotten individuals and their stories.
Despite facing challenges as an artist, Snowden remains dedicated to her craft, painting every day with unwavering passion. She credits her supportive family for fostering her love of art and providing the resources needed to pursue her dreams. Reflecting on her upbringing on university campuses, Snowden expressed gratitude for her parents’ understanding and encouragement.
The White Cube opening provided a platform for Snowden to showcase her distinctive style and engage with art enthusiasts. Her work, characterized by bold colors and intricate structures, captivated the audience and sparked meaningful conversations. Through her art, Snowden invites viewers to explore the complexities of human emotion and experience.
Overall, the event was a celebration of creativity and artistic expression, with Sylvia Snowden’s work taking center stage. As visitors mingled and discussed the pieces on display, the White Cube gallery buzzed with energy and excitement. It was a night filled with inspiration and appreciation for the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect individuals from diverse backgrounds. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges for individuals, communities, and nations across the globe. From the loss of lives to economic hardships, the impact of the virus has been profound and far-reaching. As we continue to navigate through this crisis, it is crucial to reflect on the lessons learned and consider how we can better prepare for future pandemics.
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