Biography

Corita Kent, born Frances Elizabeth Kent on November 20, 1918, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, was an influential American artist, designer, and educator. Known also as Sister Mary Corita Kent, she was a member of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a progressive religious order in Los Angeles. Kent was a pioneering figure in the pop art movement, using her art to convey messages of love, peace, and social justice. Her work is characterized by vibrant colors and bold typography, often incorporating text from advertising, scripture, and literature. Kent's primary medium was screen printing, which she embraced for its accessibility and potential for mass production. Her art gained prominence during the 1960s and 1970s, a period marked by social upheaval, where her messages resonated widely. Notable works include the Rainbow Swash, a large-scale mural on a Boston gas tank, and a 1985 United States Postal Service Love stamp. After leaving the religious order in the early 1970s, Kent continued her artistic endeavors independently until her death on September 18, 1986. Corita Kent's legacy endures as her works continue to inspire new generations. Her unique blend of spirituality and activism, coupled with her innovative use of screen printing, has solidified her place in the canon of American art.