Dr. John Thomas Biggers was born to the principal of a predominantly African-American school, Paul Biggers, and a housewife and laundrywoman, Cora Finger-Biggers in Gastonia, NC on April 13, 1924. As a young, black male in American society during the early 1900's, Dr. Biggers experienced life in much more complexity than most people in modern society. In his works of childhood, Biggers would sketch pictures from his father's bible. He became very attentive to his surroundings as a child.
Biggers' father died of diabetes, leaving Mrs. Biggers to provide for their children alone. Biggers went on to complete boarding school at Lincoln Academy and worked as a janitor to pay for his tuition. His motive was to become a plumber, however, when he attended Hampton Institution, he developed a relationship with his art professor, Viktor Lowenfield, who later became his mentor. Lowenfield was an inspiration to Dr. Biggers because he encouraged his students to become knowledgeable of the ways their cultures and heritages speak through art. Lowenfield was also a networking resource for Biggers and guided him through showcasing his works at different exhibits. Although, Biggers work was criticized, he continued to present his sculptures, murals and paintings. Later his works become appreciated by people all over the world.
After being drafted to the navy, becoming ill and being released on honorable discharge, Biggers continued his education at Pennsylvania State University. He obtained his bachelor's and master's degree in art education by 1948. Dr. Biggers contributed a very brief experience of his teaching career to students at Penn State and Alabama State for about one year. Then he came to Houston, TX to establish the art department of, the then two year old university, Texas Southern University in 1949. He furnished a great reputation for himself during the 1950's and his works became presentable due to changes in law and the views of society. Biggers received various awards and purchase prizes through different competitions presenting his work.
I believe that Dr. Biggers work provides a perfect example of how an individual's cultural beliefs and views tie in to art. His work represents his emotions towards American society and how he visualized African heritage. Prior to his visit to Africa with his wife, Hazel Hales Biggers, he viewed Africa as depressing and changed his expressions to an accurate view of Africa. When they visited Africa, it was uplifting, women danced and sang, and his attitude about Africa changed. In his work, you can see the difference of how he felt prior to their trip to Africa versus the way he viewed Africa after the visit. Dr. John Thomas Biggers died in 2001, a legend, leaving behind all his great sculptures, murals, and paintings in numerous art galleries and museums across the world.
The first photo is a mural of Biggers that expresses how he saw Ghana during his visit to Africa. He was surprised to see them rejoicing through singing and dancing. They were having a great time, not living in depression. The mural shows his experience at the Harvest Festival. In my opinion for this mural, I find that it is a prime example of how we interpret life in art. Looking at this work, I felt joy and a vibe that represents peace and no stress.
The second photo is a representation of how Biggers viewed having to learn to read. The painting reminded me of Langston Hughes' essay: Learning to Read. It looks like the older man is taking advantage of his chance, while the younger guy seems a bit discouraged about it. I believe the painting says to take advantage of your opportunities; don't let time just pass you by. You are never too old to take on a challenge.
The last photo I provided is Biggers work titled Cotton Pickers (1947). In my opinion, this abstract painting was his way to express how he viewed labor and slavery in American society at the time. The facial expressions and positions of their bodies speak of exhaustion, but thankfulness that they were done. When you look at their feet, I see he drew them large and I think it points out the idea that their feet hurt and were sore from a long period of work.
Majority of Dr. Biggers' works were designed as abstract art. His motivation was through personal views, cultural ideas and morality. I agree with most viewers that Dr. Biggers has contributed a great inspiration to modern art because he is now a legend and his work is still being presented. It was a long journey for him, from segregation laws to the ideas of society, to get his own expressions to be viewed and acceptable. I would encourage my classmates to take leisure time or a family outing to the Museum of Fine Arts as his work is showcased right here in Houston. Also, be knowledgeable of TSU's tributes to Dr. John Thomas Biggers, as the university continues to honor his successful achievements as a professor, philosopher, mentor and inspirational artist.
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