An Exploration of a Black American Artist’s Journey and Discoveries in Finland

Howard Smith: A Retrospective at the Palm Springs Art Museum

PALM SPRINGS — The Palm Springs Art Museum is hosting a retrospective of Howard Smith, an African-American artist whose work has largely remained unknown in the United States despite significant contributions to the Finnish art scene. Born in New Jersey, Smith was trained at the Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts and moved to Finland in the 1960s, where he found an accepting audience that eluded him in America.

Smith’s diverse portfolio consists of paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics, and mixed-media assemblages that bridge the gap between art, design, and décor. His minimalist black and white works and colorful textiles reflect influences from Color Field artists like Morris Louis and Kenneth Noland. Influences of Joan Miró and Adolph Gottlieb are discernible in his broader body of work, which displays both playfulness and technical skill.

Smith’s bold statement pieces, such as “Untitled” (1985), use graphic patterns to connect Finnish design with rhythms evocative of African traditions. His piece, “America?,” a 1960s mixed-media collage commenting on the contradictions of America during civil rights unrest, illustrates his aspiration to be a politically relevant artist.

The exhibition features Smith’s iconic work, “Black Angel” (1970), merging Scandinavian design with Japanese minimalism, highlighting his ability to create art that transcends cultural boundaries. This retrospective seeks to redefine Smith’s legacy and introduce his work to a broader American audience.

“The Art and Design of Howard Smith” runs through February 23, 2026, at the Palm Springs Art Museum. The exhibition, curated by Steven Wolf, is co-organized with the Espoo Museum of Modern Art in Finland.