Arthur Mitchell Paintings

Arthur Mitchell was a pioneering African-American ballet dancer, choreographer, and driving force behind the creation of the Dance Theatre of Harlem. Born on March 27, 1934, in Harlem, New York, Mitchell grew up in a neighborhood rich in culture but also faced with the challenges of racial segregation and economic hardship. Despite these barriers, his talent in dance emerged early, and he was awarded a scholarship to attend the High School of Performing Arts in New York City. This opportunity paved the way for his groundbreaking career in ballet, a field that, at the time, was largely inaccessible to African-Americans.

After graduating, Mitchell's exceptional skills earned him a scholarship to the School of American Ballet, the official school of the New York City Ballet (NYCB). In 1955, he became the first African-American to become a permanent member of the NYCB, where he quickly rose to the rank of principal dancer. His performances in roles such as Puck in 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream' and in George Balanchine's 'Agon' were critically acclaimed, showcasing not only his technical prowess but also his ability to convey deep emotion through dance.

The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 was a turning point for Mitchell. Motivated by a desire to provide opportunities for young African-Americans in the world of classical ballet, he founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) in 1969, along with his teacher, Karel Shook. Starting in a remodeled garage in Harlem, DTH grew to become an internationally acclaimed ballet company that shattered racial barriers and challenged the traditional aesthetics of ballet. Under Mitchell's direction, DTH fostered a new generation of talented dancers and brought classical and contemporary ballet to diverse audiences around the world.

Throughout his career, Mitchell received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the arts and society, including the National Medal of Arts in 1995. He remained actively involved with the Dance Theatre of Harlem until his retirement, dedicated to his mission of making ballet accessible to all. Arthur Mitchell passed away on September 19, 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire dancers and audiences across the globe. His vision and resilience transformed the world of ballet, making it a more inclusive art form that celebrates diversity and excellence.