Alma Thomas lived in her family home in Washington, DC, for more than 70 years. Born in Columbus, Georgia, she grew up in the segregated South, where Black children faced limited educational opportunities. In 1907, her family moved to Washington, DC, seeking better opportunities.

Although Washington was also segregated, Thomas was able to attend Armstrong High School, where she took her first art classes. She later described entering the art room as a transformative experience that helped shape her future.

Thomas attended Howard University, becoming the first graduate of its fine arts program in 1924, with a degree in sculpture. She later earned a master's degree in art education from Columbia University in New York City.

In addition to becoming an accomplished artist, Thomas dedicated much of her life to teaching. She taught art at Shaw Junior High School from 1924 until her retirement in 1960, encouraging generations of Black students to explore creativity and appreciate the visual arts.

During the 1960s, Thomas developed the vibrant abstract painting style for which she became internationally recognized. Despite challenges from arthritis, she continued creating artwork inspired by nature, color, and the world around her.

Her longtime residence at 1530 15th Street NW served as both her family home and creative studio. Today, the house represents her remarkable contributions to American art, education, and African American cultural history.