Alma Thomas was an influential African American artist known for her vibrant abstract paintings. Born on September 22, 1891, in Columbus, Georgia, she became a prominent figure in the Washington Color School, a movement that emphasized color and form. Thomas was also an educator, teaching art at Howard University for over 35 years. Her work often featured bold colors and dynamic patterns, inspired by nature and her experiences. In 1972, she became the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art. Thomas's legacy continues to inspire artists and art lovers today.