This article profiles Romare Bearden (1911-1988), one of the most talented American artists and well-known and influential African-American artists of the 20th century. An acknowledged master in many media, Bearden was especially innovative and preeminent in the medium of collage and printmaking. A native of North Carolina, he grew up in Harlem and Pittsburgh, began college at Lincoln University, transferred to Boston University and completed his studies at New York University (NYU), graduating with a degree in education. While at NYU, Bearden took extensive courses in art, and was a lead cartoonist and then art editor for the monthly journal, "The Medley." He was art director of "Beanpot," the student humor magazine at Boston University. Because his success came early, Bearden became a major figure in the black art world, and used his influence to help younger black artists. He willingly accepted the role of mentor and, with others, founded a gallery that gave hundreds of young artists their first exhibitions.