Joshua Johnson

Joshua Johnson (1763–1824) was an American painter known for his contributions to the Realism movement. He is recognized as one of the first professional African American portraitists in the United States. Johnson's work primarily focused on portraiture, capturing the likenesses of prominent figures in Baltimore and surrounding areas. His artistic career flourished during a time when opportunities for African American artists were limited, and he gained a reputation for his skillful representation of his subjects. Despite his significance, much of his life remains undocumented, and details about his early years and training are largely unknown. Johnson's legacy continues to be celebrated for its role in the history of American art.