Ranked as one of the best Historic Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in America, Howard University is often referred to as “The Harvard of HBCUs.” Established in 1867, Howard is one of 101 HBCUs in the United States and offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in over 120 programs. Most HBCUs were established in the 19th century, primarily to provide African Americans with high-quality higher education that they could not access elsewhere because of segregation and Jim Crow laws.
A vital arts and culture resource, Howard’s motto is “Veritas et Utilitas; Excellence in Truth and Service is reflected in all that we do.” This focus on excellence has drawn renowned artists to its campus, both as students and as faculty. Howard is recognized for its outdoor sculptures and Gallery of Art, which has built a phenomenal collection of portraits, abstractions, photographs, and ethnographic compositions over the last nine decades. Here is a list of seven notable artworks on Howard’s campus and significant artists who have taught and learned at the school.
