Philemona Williamson

Philemona Williamson (born 1951, New York, NY) is an American painter known for her psychologically rich figurative works that explore memory, girlhood, identity, and the complexities of coming-of-age. Her paintings feature ambiguous narratives that center young people—often girls and adolescents—caught in moments of emotional transition. With vibrant color, symbolic objects, and fluid dreamlike compositions, Williamson examines interpersonal relationships, cultural heritage, and the inner worlds of youth. Her work has been exhibited nationally at the Montclair Art Museum, Joan Mitchell Foundation, The Newark Museum of Art, The Bronx Museum of the Arts, and the June Kelly Gallery. Williamson received her BA from Bennington College and her MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). She lives and works in New York.