In partnership with the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s Anna Russell Jones:The Art of Design exhibition

Join us for a special screening featuring Anna Russell Jones, Betty Leacraft and Betye Saar, three women of African descent who have led trailblazing and pioneering careers as artists, often using their work to make pointed and powerful political statements.

Betye Saar: Taking Care of Business
Directed by Christine Turner
(USA, 2019, 9 min)

There’s no stopping the groundbreaking and legendary artist Betye Saar, even atage 93. Pushing boundaries for 70 years, this portrait of artist Betye Saar shows she isn’t done fighting inequality in her personal and powerful work. Inside her LA studio, Saar talks about collecting objects, African American history, art as a weapon, and making people think.

Betty Leacraft: Shape Shifter of Textiles
Produced by Jere Edmunds, Edited by Ellen Reynolds
(USA, 2021, 20 min)

Betty Leacraft is a "shape shifter of textiles," presenter, curator and educator who has led culturally inspired fiber/textile related workshops and residencies in tri-state area's under-served, under-resourced communities, colleges, public schools, libraries, prisons, senior centers, women's shelters, and re-entry and substance abuse programs. As a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, Leacraft's artistry and career continues to be a beacon of the city and beyond.

Anna Russell Jones: Praisesong for a Pioneering Spirit
Directed by Nadine Patterson, Produced by Marlene G. Patterson
(USA, 1993, 26 min)

Meet Mrs. Anna Russell Jones, a textile designer in the 1920s and ‘30s, a member of the Women’s Army Auxilary Corps during World War II, and a nurse in the 1950s, she was a professional career woman ahead of her times.  Narrated by Toni Cade Bambara. Music by Warren Oree and the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble.

Anna, Betty and Betye: 3 Women in Craft