Transcending Black History: Thomas H. Miller, Sr.

Thomas H. Miller, Sr. is a visual artist, graphic designer and inventor. At age nine, he began to explore the spark that ignited his imagination. He transformed this gift with passion, a Federal Art School Scholarship and thirty-three years of application in graphic design. He honed his craft by completing 200 drawings per week. “I just wanted to draw!” Mr. Miller explained. He didn't have the money to afford paper but overcame limited resources by being resourceful. He filled his wagon with paper scraps collected from the trash of printers.

Thomas Miller's raw talent, study and practice enabled him to execute a flawless portrait of Mayor Harold Washington. This mosaic now lights the east entryway of the DuSable Museum in Chicago. Other “Miller Mosaics” were commissioned by the museum and the Michael Jordan Foundation. Several galleries and collectors in Europe have acquired a taste for his creativity. His design papers are part of the permanent collection at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

I had the good fortune of meeting Mr. Miller at the DuSable Museum in 1996. The following year we collaborated with others on an art show of his works. Enjoy a few examples below.

The King's Vase, Carved and pressed foam

Untitled Mask, Carved and pressed foam

Ball & Confusion, Mixed Media 2D

Transformation, Paint & Pencil

Mr. Miller not only mastered numerous mediums but had a broad inventive mode. He invited me into his home and shared one of his designs to prevent basements from flooding that was of simple construction and easily fit over basement drains using the basic principle of water seeking its own level. The inspiration for this invention may or may not have had something to do his basement workshop overflowing with completed and partial works, designs and memorabilia of several types, Though the space was small, his giving nature made the experience without bounds.

Thomas Miller's first accomplishment was the full embrace of his gifts. His talents endured and matured beyond the visual to illuminate the spiritual and the possible.

Related articles on Thomas H. Miller, Sr:

Pioneering Artist Honored For His Stellar Career

Thomas H. E. Miller Design Papers

Thomas Miller (visual artist)

Thomas Miller Mosaics

African-American Designers: The Chicago Experience Then and Now (Lecture)

African-American Designers: The Chicago Experience Then and Now (Book)