Black Male Artist Professor Series — Portrait No. 18: Stanley Whitney (Work-in-Progress)
I’m excited to share the latest progress in my ongoing Black Male Artist Professor Portrait Series, now reaching Portrait No. 18 out of 25. This new work honors the renowned American artist Stanley Whitney, widely respected for his groundbreaking contributions to geometric abstraction, rhythm, and vibrant color compositions.
I have officially completed the background foundation for this 36" x 48" acrylic and paper on canvas painting, intentionally designed to be inspired by geometric abstraction as a visual nod to Whitney’s signature style. The layered colors, structured forms, and rhythmic spacing bring early movement and energy to the piece. I’ll refine the background further before transitioning to the figure.
The portrait figure itself will be Fauvist-inspired, emphasizing bold color, expressive brushwork, and emotional intensity, celebrating the energy and creativity Whitney brings to his work. I’m especially excited to draw his figure, as his distinct and compelling profile promises to bring depth, personality, and richness to the final composition.
Who Is Stanley Whitney? (Short Bio)
Stanley Whitney (b. 1946) is an internationally acclaimed contemporary painter known for his structured yet improvisational color-grid compositions influenced by African American cultural history, jazz improvisation, classical architecture, and global art traditions. Whitney attended the Kansas City Art Institute (1968) and Yale University / Yale School of Art (1972) for his studies. He is also Professor Emeritus, Painting at Temple University, where he shared his expertise in abstract painting with generations of students. His work challenges rhythm, repetition, and spatial perception, positioning him as one of the most influential abstract artists working today.
Thank you for following this journey and supporting this creative series celebrating Black artist representation, education, and artistic legacy.
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