Samuel M. Middleton
American, 1927 - 2015
Sam Middleton (April 2, 1927 – July 19, 2015) was a distinguished mixed-media artist whose creative journey spanned the globe. Born in New York City and raised in Harlem, Middleton's artistic vision was deeply influenced by the vibrant jazz and classical music scenes of his youth. His experiences at the Savoy Ballroom, where he designed costumes and painted record covers, left a lasting impact on his work.
At 17, seeking artistic freedom, Middleton joined the US Merchant Marine, which allowed him to travel extensively. During his voyages, he immersed himself in art galleries and museums, gaining inspiration for his own creations. Though he faced challenges in the United States, largely due to racial barriers, he refined his craft and studied alongside notable Black artists like Beauford Delaney.
In 1956, Middleton won a scholarship to the Institute Allende in San Miguel Allende, Mexico, where he honed his skills. By 1961, he settled in the Netherlands, joining a community of expatriate African American artists. There, he found greater creative freedom, channeling his love for jazz and the stunning landscapes of North Holland into his abstract expressionist work. His paintings evolved, reflecting the rich colors of the tulip fields and the harmonious rhythms of music.
Middleton's artistic contributions gained recognition in the Netherlands, where he became an influential figure in the local art scene. He held exhibitions in prominent galleries and taught at institutions like Atelier '63 in Haarlem and the Royal Academy of Art in 's Hertogenbosch. Throughout his life, he remained connected to his roots, periodically returning to Harlem but choosing to embrace his life in Europe.
His works are part of esteemed collections, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, which featured him in the significant 1962 exhibition "40 Artists Under 40" and included his art in the 2015 inaugural exhibition for its new building on the High Line. Sam Middleton's legacy endures, inspiring future generations with his unique blend of musical influence and visual artistry.
At 17, seeking artistic freedom, Middleton joined the US Merchant Marine, which allowed him to travel extensively. During his voyages, he immersed himself in art galleries and museums, gaining inspiration for his own creations. Though he faced challenges in the United States, largely due to racial barriers, he refined his craft and studied alongside notable Black artists like Beauford Delaney.
In 1956, Middleton won a scholarship to the Institute Allende in San Miguel Allende, Mexico, where he honed his skills. By 1961, he settled in the Netherlands, joining a community of expatriate African American artists. There, he found greater creative freedom, channeling his love for jazz and the stunning landscapes of North Holland into his abstract expressionist work. His paintings evolved, reflecting the rich colors of the tulip fields and the harmonious rhythms of music.
Middleton's artistic contributions gained recognition in the Netherlands, where he became an influential figure in the local art scene. He held exhibitions in prominent galleries and taught at institutions like Atelier '63 in Haarlem and the Royal Academy of Art in 's Hertogenbosch. Throughout his life, he remained connected to his roots, periodically returning to Harlem but choosing to embrace his life in Europe.
His works are part of esteemed collections, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, which featured him in the significant 1962 exhibition "40 Artists Under 40" and included his art in the 2015 inaugural exhibition for its new building on the High Line. Sam Middleton's legacy endures, inspiring future generations with his unique blend of musical influence and visual artistry.
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