Carroll Sockwell
/About Carroll Sockwell (1943-1992)
Carrol Sockwell, born in 1943 amidst Washington's segregation, transcended a challenging youth through his artistic talents, nurtured and recognized by renowned art therapist Elinor Ulman. At the age of 17, he immersed himself in New York City's vibrant art scene, engaging with pioneers of Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Minimalism, and conceptualism.
Upon his return to Washington in 1963, Sockwell became an integral part of the city's burgeoning art community. He curated at the historic Barnett-Aden Gallery, the inaugural African American art museum, and exhibited at the influential Jefferson Place Gallery. By the early 1970s, his work garnered acclaim from esteemed curators like Walter Hopps and Roy Slade, leading to exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Brooklyn Museum, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Influenced by the Washington Color School, Sockwell skillfully harmonized geometric and gestural abstraction, expertly blending contrasting elements. His creations delved into personal and occasionally somber themes, encapsulating historically significant moments, evident in pieces like "Crisis of the Sixties" and "The Wrecking of the Berlin Wall."
Despite the decline of abstract art in the 1980s, Sockwell persisted, drawing inspiration from icons like Francis Bacon and Marlene Dietrich, embodying resilience amidst challenges. His work, often navigating the shadows, mirrored his internal battles and triumphs.
Enduring economic hardships, Sockwell continued to craft intensely personal art, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft. His journey, shaped by encounters with influential artists and a profound connection to the evolving art landscape, molded his unique vision, establishing him as a distinguished figure in the realm of abstract art.
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Carroll Sockwell: Grey Compositions
Founders Gallery @ Mason Square Campus, Arlington
August 12 - December 12, 2022
Buchanan Partners Gallery @ Hylton Performing Arts Center
October 12 – November 14, 2021
Exhibition Overview:
This exhibit features Sockwell’s suite of 6 large scale drawings titled Grey Compositions. The drawings feature a cacophony of black charcoal marks dancing over smoke-like expanses of grey and brown. Viewed together, the abstract works’ map-like graphic notations suggest an epic visual poem or musical score.
Mason Collection
The Mason Collection proudly houses a significant series by Carrol Sockwell, titled "Grey Compositions," generously donated by Mr. Ron Shapiro. This collection of six large-scale drawings features bold black charcoal marks intricately woven across expansive grey and brown backgrounds, creating a dance of contrasts. Viewed collectively, these abstract works transform into a visual poem or musical score, their intricate graphic notations resembling a map, capturing the essence of an epic artistic expression.
This collection stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance of Carrol Sockwell, an African-American artist whose contributions have often been overlooked. George Mason University Art Collection is deeply honored to exhibit this impactful representation of Sockwell's innovative and under-recognized work, celebrating his profound artistic legacy.
Researched by Soo Paek
Graduate Professional Assistant
Fenwick Library, Arts & Humanities Team
Provisions Research Center for Art and Social Change