The Soul of Clementine Hunter

Clementine Hunter was born in December 1886 into a Louisiana Creole family at Hidden Hill Plantation near Cloutierville, in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana. The African American self-taught folk artist lived on the Melrose Plantation the majority of her life. She never learned how to read or write. The artist began collecting brushes and paints left by an artist who visited the plantation. Independently, she began selling her paintings in the early twentieth century for as little as 25 cents. Works featured by the artist and entrepreneur depicts Black Southern life. Her paintings spans generational themes that are relevant today. As an independent artist, she painted prolifically in her fifties. Her work received critical acclaim and is revered internationally. Learn More About the artist and her life story on the Melrose Plantation here.

Enjoy the mini library exhibit featuring the art work by Clementine Hunter.