Born in 1887, Laura Wheeler Waring’s brush strokes wove vibrant tapestries of resilience and cultural pride, capturing the essence of African American identity during the Harlem Renaissance. Her portraits brought to life the dignified visages of luminaries such as Marian Anderson and W.E.B. Du Bois. Waring’s artistry transcended mere representation; it was a clarion call for recognition and respect, illuminating the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. Educated at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, she honed her craft with a fervor that defied the constraints of her era, traveling to Paris where her talents blossomed amidst the avant-garde.