Sharecropper, Elizabeth Catlett

Archive Label 2003:
When looking at Elizabeth Catlett’s Sharecropper consider the features and mood of the woman, the repetition of lines throughout the entire work, and the time period the artist is referencing.

The woman is in the foreground and is removed from a surrounding environment.

• From what angle are you viewing the woman?
Is it straightforward or from a slightly lower angle looking upwards?

• Catlett’s repetition of lines creates a series of patterns in the woman’s face, clothes, hat, and background. Do these patterns enhance the pensive and somber expression of the woman or do they contrast the woman’s mood, creating a sense of energy and dynamism?

• Even though Catlett made this image in 1968, how relevant is the subject of sharecropping in contemporary America?

In Sharecropper, Catlett depicts a working woman who appears physically strong by her stylized features and the muscular tones in her face. Her mood is somber and pensive as she stares into an unseen distance. She appears graceful and strong, but emotionally empty and tired. Although sharecropping is no longer a common practice, Catlett’s subject in Sharecropper is still relevant in light of the hundreds of migrant farm workers who labor in the fields to make a living in contemporary America.

Catlett has explored a variety of themes of women in North America throughout her career as a painter, sculptor, and graphic artist. The majority of her work depicts working minority women. The African-American, Mexican, and Native American worker have always been important subjects for her. Much of Catlett’s inspiration comes from stories told by her grandparents, who were slaves, and from working and living as an artist in Mexico. One of Catlett’s goals is to reach as many people possible through her art. She believes that the message of her work should be direct and simple and asserts that “art is the strongest form of communication between peoples.”