Edmondson, WilliamWilliam Edmondson, "Crucifixion" limestone, ca 1932-1937.

(1863-1951) Stone carver and folk artist, Edmondson started his career in the art world at the age of 60, but made a major impact with his works. He carved people and animals for friends and their families for tombstone decorations. In 1935 he was discovered by Sidney Hirsch who helped him get a solo exhibition at he Museum of Modern Art in 1937. A year later he had an exhibition in Paris and after being employed by the WPA, he was able to have his first exhibition in Nashville, TN his hometown.

Source: Patton, Sharon F. African-American Art. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1998. 132-133.