Myrtle Williams (b. 1938) is a ceramic artist whose work redefines the classical bust form, centering Black women as powerful and heroic figures. She reimagines the classical bust form, placing Black women at the forefront as symbols of strength and resilience. After earning a Fine Art degree in Printmaking from Beaver College (now Arcadia University) in 1980, she discovered her passion for ceramics while teaching at Montgomery County Community College. Williams’ sculptures blend African cultural references, such as scarification, cowrie shells, textiles and beads, with dynamic, shape-shifting forms that defy convention. Some pieces pay homage to iconic Black women like Ella Fitzgerald and Lena Horne, while others evoke spirit-like deities, redefining traditional portrayals of femininity. Through her bold and unconventional approach, she subverts traditional figurative norms, embracing a womanist perspective that proclaims: “women rule the world.” Deeply personal yet universally resonant, Williams’ work reflects her lived experiences and global influences, serving as a powerful tribute to African American heritage, identity and liberation: past, present and future.
Over the course of 35 years, she has produced more than 300 ceramic sculptures, exhibiting her work across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and Salon 94, New York, USA (2023). Her work is included in major public collections such as the Brooklyn Museum, New York (USA).
Myrtle Williams, Photo by Jospeh Painter, Courtesy of the artist & Salon94Myrtle Williams (b. 1938) is a ceramic artist whose work redefines the classical bust form, centering Black women as powerful and heroic figures. She reimagines the classical bust form, placing Black women at the forefront as symbols of strength and resilience. After earning a Fine Art degree in Printmaking from Beaver College (now Arcadia University) in 1980, she discovered her passion for ceramics while teaching at Montgomery County Community College. Williams’ sculptures blend African cultural references, such as scarification, cowrie shells, textiles and beads, with dynamic, shape-shifting forms that defy convention. Some pieces pay homage to iconic Black women like Ella Fitzgerald and Lena Horne, while others evoke spirit-like deities, redefining traditional portrayals of femininity. Through her bold and unconventional approach, she subverts traditional figurative norms, embracing a womanist perspective that proclaims: “women rule the world.” Deeply personal yet universally resonant, Williams’ work reflects her lived experiences and global influences, serving as a powerful tribute to African American heritage, identity and liberation: past, present and future.Over the course of 35 years, she has produced more than 300 ceramic sculptures, exhibiting her work across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and Salon 94, New York, USA (2023). Her work is included in major public collections such as the Brooklyn Museum, New York (USA).