New art exhibit honoring Rhode Island native comes to RISD

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Nancy Elizabeth Prophet was the first known woman of color to graduate from Rhode Island School of Design in 1918.

“She is a really pivotal sculptor and artist,” Social, Equity, and Inclusion Specialist Kajette Solomon said.

The new exhibit “I Will Not Bend an Inch” showcases Prophet’s artwork and celebrates her legacy.

The exhibit opens Saturday, Feb. 17 and it will be open through Aug. 4.

Prophet was born in Warwick in 1890, then traveled to Paris to study. She then taught at Spellman College in Atlanta before making the ultimate return to Rhode Island where she passed away in 1960.

“You are going to see water colors, you are going to see friezes, you are going to see sculptures, and drawings. Most particularly you are going to see how she worked with her tools,” Solomon said.

This is the first time all of Prophet’s artwork is on display.

Solomon concluded, “Having it altogether in this one place especially in Rhode Island because she was born in Warwick and she is interred in Pawtucket and we really want to honor her legacy, her work, at this time, especially as we celebrate alum works of art.”