By Steve Miller
When you think of all of those who have contributed to American History, a portrait painter might not be an obvious choice. Only 30 American artists have had the honor of painting the official White House portrait, but none have been African-American.
Celebrated artist Simmie Knox talked to the University on Tuesday as the celebration of African-American history continues through April. Knox discussed how he earned his place in history as the first black artist to paint not only an official presidential portrait, but also one of a Supreme Court Justice.
In summer 2004 Knox inspired millions of young African-Americans and instantly became a role model for artists around the world when he accomplished what many thought was an impossible task.
His presentation, “Journey to the Whitehouse” and slide show was an attempt to encourage students to follow their dreams. The Cultural Center and The New Opportunities At Hofstra (NOAH) Program sponsored the event and helped give students an insider’s view on the journey and struggle of an inspiring artist.
“His story is inspirational to many students and we wanted to bring the students here to be part of his journey and to know what his life was about,” Sybil Mimy, executive director of NOAH, said. “We want students to be inspired to do what it is they want to do and it helps them to hear from a man who has had to go through many struggles and has inspired millions of people.”
The 69-year-old Alabama native never took an art class while growing up. With encouragement from his family he taught himself to draw. Knox felt if he believed in what he wanted to do then persistence would get him there.
“My craft keeps me alive,” he said. “I get up at 2 a.m. sometimes, just so I can get in my studio and make my paintings. I’m doing exactly what I would do if I retired, or even if this Clinton painting never happened.”
Knox has worked for some of the most powerful and influential people in the country, but is best known for his portraits of celebrities and famous officials, such as Bill Cosby, defense lawyer Johnnie Cochran, late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, boxer Muhammad Ali and baseball great Hank Aaron. Mostly oil-on-linen, Knox’s portraits are lifelike.
“If I can see it, I can paint it,” Knox said. “I am trying to tell a story in my artwork and show the person’s strengths.”
A father of three, Knox says he is proud that he has managed to develop his art into a successful and secure business.
“It’s a tough way to make a living,” he said. “The only way I’ve managed is by working hard. There’s no such thing as an off day, not in the last 15 years.”
Throughout his presentation, Knox gave several pieces of advice to students. “Don’t ever be afraid to fail, because if you don’t fail you won’t succeed. Failing is how you learn.” He went on to say, “Teaching yourself is not the way to learn something. It takes too long and the whole purpose of education is to reduce the amount of time it takes for you to learn and be on your way. Today I arrive here at the age of 69. I could have arrived much faster if I was taught.”
Simmie Knox is the first African-American to paint a White House portrait. (Steve Miller/The Chronicle)