Just One Look! What is it in the artist's sensitive, perhaps even sinister gaze, that continues to emanate (and resonate) with kindred spirits down through the generations? However you interpret or sense it, almost 100 years later, there's still something about Lenwood! Evertime I look at his portrait, I have a certain sense of knowing and familiarity.
There is little information to be found on this painter other than the fact that he studied at the Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia in the early 1900's. Mr. Morris should not be confused with Linwood Morris who found fame with the Katherine Dunham Dancers much later on. However, that there was an early connection to the renowned same-gender identified African-American philosopher Dr. Alain Locke only arouses my suspicions. So, it's possible that my suspicions may never be confirmed, but in the context of SGL history, it's important!
This self-portrait is the only known Lenwood Morris painting to ever come up for auction. In 2007, the Swann Auction House in New York sold it for $15,6oo.
ADDENDUM: Included here is the Morris portrait of Dr. Alain Locke, the first African American Rhodes Scholar and Professor of Philosophy at Howard University. Dr. Locke bequeathed many paintings, sculptures, books and memorabilia to Howard, but the Lenwood Morris painting is not dated. I think it's beautiful! *Thanks, Greg!
OMG!! Its absolutely amazing you should post this. I was going through some of my grandma's memorabilia and I found a Playbill from 1946 and its for a dance performance by Katherine Dunham & her troup who were touring the USA at the time. It was a performance at the Belasco Theatre and in the Playbill is the name 'Lenwood Morris'
I went to Howard University way, way back in the day and I remember seeing a very attractive portrait of Alain Locke done by Lenwood Morris. It was a very flattering portrait and looked just like Dr. Locke's photographs.
Well, let me say this. Perhaps there isn't much info on this 'Lenwood Morris' out there and the fact that he may have hung out with Alaine Locke speaks volumes, but our very own Harlem architectural historian; Michael-Henry Adams is working on a history book about gay life in Harlem & if anyone can dig up info on someone who here-to-fore is seen as obscure, then Michael can.
Posted by: Greg | July 05, 2011 at 10:25 PM
@Greg! Yes, Katherine's "Linwood" is part of our family, and I actually have a post in the planning stages that will feature him.
As for Michael-Henry Adams - THE MAN IS A BEAST ISN'T HE? We touch base occasionally and I will bring THIS and a few OTHER THINGS to his attention! Thanks for reminding me!
And as usual, thanks for your greatcomments.
Posted by: Corey | July 06, 2011 at 11:27 AM
Exquisite portraits! They call to mind the patrician atmosphere resonant in the paintings of John Singer Sargeant. I love this style of painting!
As usual you give us a great education and historical perspective, Corey. You should see if you can get accredited, so we can get degrees, lol!
Posted by: Thomas | July 06, 2011 at 03:28 PM
YAAAYYY ! ! ! THOMAS IS BACK! And yes, I agree with the John Singer-Sargent comparison.
Posted by: Corey | July 06, 2011 at 07:25 PM