The African American history is one that endured many hardships through social unrest, forced physical labor, suppression, and migration from homelands on two circumstances. African Americans had struggled to reach an identity based on heritage and culture or with the new international art movement based on European artistic tradition. A desire for self- expression was bursting at the seams. Migration from the southern states to the north revealed a new collective ethnic union that was necessary to thrive economically and culturally. A wave of change was present through this migration away from a life of social inequality and stunted growth towards opportunity of education, employment, and growth of artistic identity. This period became known as the Harlem Renaissance and took place in the 1920’s – 1930’s post World War I. Also known as the “New Negro Movement”, it stood as a defining moment and awakening of the African American spirit with new forms of expression through art, literature, and music.
This exhibit, “A Wave of Change”, dives into this prominent movement from troubled pasts towards a future of hope in the African American journey in the early 20th century. This exhibition will feature artworks from two leading artists of the Renaissance Movement whom capture this era with truth and stunning depth. Aaron Doulgas, illustrator and painter, created panels and murals of stylized, geometric figures and silhouettes featuring the cultural background of African Americans with the dominant presence of music and dance. Jacob Lawrence, fellow Harlemite, was a skilled painter and muralist. Through his series “Migration of the Negro”, he sought to reveal the conditions of living in the South as well as in the North, reasons for leaving, and tribulations that were faced. Joined together in this exhibit, both artists will reveal connections through three common themes: “Back to the Roots” of African influence, “Everyday Life” presenting scenes of daily life experience, and “Change a’comin” showing the optimism brought through the Harlem Renaissance.
A Wave of Change 