Corita Kent

Date of Birth: November 20, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: September 18, 1986

Biography

Corita Kent, born Frances Elizabeth Kent, was an influential American artist, educator, and former Catholic nun, known for her vibrant serigraphs (silk screen prints) that combined social commentary with spiritual themes. Born on November 20, 1918, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, she grew up in Los Angeles, California. Kent joined the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 1936 and took the name Sister Mary Corita. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Immaculate Heart College and later a Master’s degree in Art History from the University of Southern California. Kent became the head of the art department at Immaculate Heart College in 1964, where she developed a progressive curriculum and fostered an environment that encouraged creativity and social justice. Her artwork gained national attention during the 1960s for its bold use of color and typography, often incorporating slogans and quotes that reflected her pacifist and activist beliefs. In 1968, Kent left the religious order and moved to Boston to focus entirely on her art. She continued to produce works that addressed political and social issues of the time until her death on September 18, 1986.

5 Interesting Facts about Corita Kent

1. Corita Kent’s work was heavily influenced by the Pop Art movement, and she often used popular culture references in her pieces.

2. One of her most famous works is the “Love” postage stamp, which was issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1985.

3. Kent’s work is included in the collections of major museums, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

4. She was an outspoken critic of the Vietnam War and used her art as a platform for peace and social justice.

5. Kent’s innovative teaching methods and art curriculum at Immaculate Heart College inspired many students and left a lasting impact on art education.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Corita Kent

1. “To create is to relate. We trust our hunches. We let our instincts guide us.”

2. “Art does not come from thinking but from responding.”

3. “To understand is to stand under, which is to look up to, which is a good way to understand.”

4. “We can all talk to the whole world if we have something to say.”

5. “Love the moment, and the energy of that moment will spread beyond all boundaries.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no widely available information on Corita Kent’s highest net worth achieved, as her primary focus was on art and social activism rather than financial gain.