Brenda Joysmith

Brenda Joysmith is best known for her positive depictions of everyday Black life which are, in her words, “as common as sunshine.”

A native of Memphis, Tennesee, Brenda began her formal training in 1968 at the Art Institute of Chicago. She then continued at the University of Chicago where, in 1974, she recieved a B.A. Degree in Fine Arts.

Moving to Northern California, Ms. Joysmith opened her first studio in 1980. in 1984 she self-published her first limited-edition print portfolio of six paintings titled Tapestry — which included her signature painting “Madonna with Child.”

Over the years, her art work has received valued exposure on the sets of both network television series (The Cosby Show, A Different World, Amen, Family Matters, Sinbad, In The Heat Of The Night, Sparks, Good News, The Gregory Hines Show, The Jamie Foxx Show, Malcolm and Eddie, and The Hughleys) and feature films (Philadelphia, Lethal Weapon III, Ghost Dad, House Party II, Jason’s Lyric, A Family Thing, and A Preacher’s Wife).

Brenda’s original pastel paintings are included in many individual, corporate, and organization collections; including those of Maya Angelou, Mayor Willie Brown, Roberta Flack, The William King Collection, Alpha Kappa Alpha National Sorority, Chicago’s EHS Bethany Hospital Birthing Unit, The Colgate-Palmolive Company Permanent Collection, National Council of Negro Women, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), San Francisco Art Commission, Sigma Gamma Rho National Sorority, Africa In April Collection, and the U.S. Embassy Ambassador’s residence in Lesotho, South Africa.

“Drawing from careful observation of Black people in their ordinary routines…most of our cultural roots take us back to the South. I want to remind us of the strengths and positive substance of that experience, connecting with the universal and the timeless.”

Figurine Care

Each figurine is made in a hand cast resin material, a relatively trouble free material that should be cared for much like porcelain.

This figurine should be dusted regularly, usinf a light touch and soft clean brush (like a water color brush) used only for dusting figurines. If the piece is kept dust free, cleaning is not required.

The piece can be wiped gently with a damp cotton ball or soft cloth. Detergents will harm paint and metal finishes and should not be used on the resin. Air dry in a safe place before storage.

Display your fine collectible in a safe place, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Do not crowd fine art or collectibles when displaying. This is a primary cause of breakage.

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