Edmonia Lewis Quotes
Born: July 4, 1844
Edmonia Lewis, a pioneering sculptor of African American and Indigenous heritage, channeled profound mindfulness and peace into her art. Born in 1844, she transformed marble into narratives of resilience, justice, and spiritual calm, often depicting figures like Cleopatra and Hiawatha in serene, contemplative poses. Her philosophy held that true peace emerges from acknowledging struggle and finding harmony within. Lewis’s quotes resonate deeply because they echo her own journey—overcoming prejudice with grace, and creating beauty from turmoil. Her words inspire reflection, urging us to carve stillness from chaos, and to see strength in quiet dignity. She remains a beacon of peaceful resilience.
Edmonia Lewis Quotes (10)
"I was practically driven to Rome in order to obtain the opportunities for art culture and to find a social atmosphere where I was not constantly reminded of my color. The land of liberty had no room for a colored sculptor."
— Edmonia Lewis"I thought I knew everything when I came to Rome, but I soon found I had everything to learn."
— Edmonia Lewis"I have a strong sympathy for all women who have struggled and suffered."
— Edmonia Lewis"There is nothing so beautiful as the free forest. To catch a fish when you are hungry, cut the boughs of a tree, make a fire to roast it, and eat it in the open air, is the greatest of all luxuries. I would not stay a week pent up in cities if it were not for my passion for art."
— Edmonia Lewis"One day, I saw a statue of Benjamin Franklin, and I said to myself, 'I can do that kind of work, too.'"
— Edmonia Lewis"My features I take from my father, but my spirit, my industry and perseverance I get from my Indian mother."
— Edmonia Lewis"Until I was twelve years old, I led this wandering life, fishing, swimming, and making moccasins."
— Edmonia Lewis"Some praise me because I am a colored girl, and I don't want that kind of praise. I had rather you would point out my defects, for that will teach me something."
— Edmonia Lewis"Sometimes the times were dark and the outlook was lonesome, but where there is a will, there is a way. I pitched in and dug at my work until now I am where I am."
— Edmonia Lewis"No, I have not a drop of what they call white blood in my veins. My father was a full blooded Negro, and my mother was a full blooded Chippewa."
— Edmonia Lewis