Allen Stringfellow (Finding Aid)

Allen Stringfellow

1923 - 2004

Favorite Color: Red

Favorite Food: Chicken

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Favorite Vacation Spot: Florida

Interview Length: 132 minutes

Interview Date(s): January 8, 2001

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Allen Stringfellow recalls his life in Champaign, Illinois in the early 1920s and 1930s, where he was raised by his grandmother, Mother Briggs. His parents were entertainers and didn't raise their six children. Stringfellow rememebers an elementary school teacher who encouraged his artistic creativity. Stringfellow details hisconinuing interest and training in art, which was further encouraged by Roosevelt's New Deal programs at the South Side Community Arts Center, Allen Stringfellow describes his life at the South Side Community Art Center and his fellow artists like Gordon Parks, Elizabeth Catlett and William Carter. Stringfellow was part of a program created by the New Deal program, the Works Progress Adminsitration. He details the influnece the program and his fellow artists had upon him. Allen Stringfellow details his time working at Armand Lee's framing business, which exposed him to different kinds of art and improved his own art. Stringfellow explains how his art changed over time, and discusses some of the themes present in his art, including jazz and the church. He then talks about buyers of his work and his success in New York City. Allen Stringfellow details the motivations and inspiration behind his most well-known pieces such as 'Red Umbrella Down by the Riverside' and "All That Jazz'. He explains that music and religion played a large role in shaping his artisitc vision. He says he draws much joy from collectors of his art who admire and enjoy his style. Allen Stringfellow considers the importance of art in black culture, and his legacy as an artist. He then describes photographs that depict his life and career, including images of his most famous works. Stringfellow then discusses the important role of his assistant, Nicole, and shares his thoughts about spirituality and art.

58 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)