Samuel Joseph Brown, Jr. (American, 1907–1994) was a pioneering African American painter, illustrator, and educator best known for his sensitive depictions of life during the 20th century. Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, and raised in Philadelphia, Brown was one of the first African American artists to receive national attention through the WPA's Federal Art Project. His watercolors of everyday life offered a dignified, lyrical counterpoint to the era’s dominant narratives.
Trained at the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, Brown developed a refined technique in watercolor and drawing, often focusing on intimate scenes - such as family gatherings, schoolchildren, and portraits - that emphasized grace, perseverance, and cultural pride. His work appeared in key exhibitions at the Harmon Foundation and the Whitney Museum, helping to shift public perception of Black American artistry during the Harlem Renaissance and beyond.
In addition to his artmaking, Brown was a dedicated public school teacher in Philadelphia for over four decades, where he mentored generations of young artists. His legacy is rooted in both his aesthetic mastery and his commitment to education, community, and the humanizing power of art.
