The Art of Beauford Delaney

Beauford Delaney was a modernist/expressionist artist who was influenced by artists like Cézanne, Matisse, Monet and Van Gogh. He became one of the leading modernist painters of his time.

Beauford Delaney Biography

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee in 1901, Beauford Delaney and his brother were exposed to the world of art at a young age. Beauford was one of ten children, but only four of them survived to adulthood. His brother Joseph also became an artist. Their mother Delia was born into slavery and taught her children a sense of dignity as well as instructing them on racial injustice and the importance of education. Encouraged by his parents, Delaney made his way to Boston where he continued to hone his artistic abilities. He eventually made his way to New York where the urban scene inspired his art.
Delaney also spent several years in Paris where he continued to work on his art and was able to support himself was able to support himself financially through sales of his paintings and subscriptions from friends. He also received a grant from the National Council of the Arts in 1969.

Beauford Delaney’s Legacy

Despite facing hardship throughout his life, Delaney remained dedicated to his craft. He became known for his work during the Harlem Renaissance of the 1930’s and 1940’s as well as his abstract expressionist style. His legacy lives on through his art, which can be found in museums and galleries around the world.