The influence of African Americans by Xavier JL
The Influence of African Americans
African Americans have had a significant impact on modern art. African American artists have made important contributions to the development and evolution of modern art through unique perspectives and styles. They brought in some new concepts and ideas that contributed to the progress of modern art. Their art also included deeper messages to fight for social justice and equality such as racism, civil rights, and identity. Their work eventually impacted and influenced the history of America and led to changes. Movements such as the Harlem Renaissance or abstract expressionism are only a few examples of what African American artists brought to the table.
Can Fire in the Park, Beauford Delaney, 1946
Created in 1946, this painting is issued from the Abstract Expressionism movement.
This piece contrasts with the pieces of art we usually see in rich and wealthy places and shows people gathering outside a simple park. Delaney uses sweeping brush strokes and energetic lines to create movement and dynamism in the artwork. It makes the piece more vivid and alive. The colors used are mostly warm and comforting, the colors are rich and vibrant which illuminates the painting. The subjects and objects are not painted with a lot of precision, following the abstract idea. It lets the viewer interpret the way they want it and brings in creativity and imagination. Overall, this piece serves as a remarkable representation of Delaney's artistic vision and his ability to convey powerful emotions through his art. I personally enjoy this piece because it lets my imagination speak. The painting feels alive and vivid and very colorful. It is a piece that I would hang in a working place because I get positive and joyful vibes from it.
Couple in Raccoon Coats, James Van Der Zee, 1932
"Couple in Raccoon Coats" is a photograph taken by James Van Der Zee in 1932. Van Der Zee was an African American photographer known for his portraits and documentation of Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. This photograph is a representation of the fashion and social context of the time. It features a young African American couple posing in a relaxed manner with confidence and style. Raccoon coats were considered a symbol of status and sophistication at the time and posing in these shows the emergence of the African American population which was still fighting for basic rights and justice. This image indeed showcases the elegance of the African American community in Harlem during the 1930s. Van Der Zee's attention to detail is apparent in this photograph. The couple's outfits, hairstyles, and accessories are carefully arranged, capturing a glance of their personalities and social aspirations. The image remains a significant example of Van Der Zee's talent for capturing images that are significant and that tell a story. I think it is a beautiful image, the quality, and the elegance strike out for me and it’s a piece that I would definitely hang in my room.
The Migration of the Negro, Jacob Lawrence, 1940
"The Migration of the Negro" is a series of paintings created by Jacob Lawrence in 1940. This series of paintings showcased and explained the mass movement of African Americans from the Southern states to Northern cities in search of better economic opportunities, escape from racial oppression, and the hope of a better life. It helped put a better perspective on what the African American community had to go through. This painting uses bright colors, geometric shapes, and simplified forms. Repetition is also used in this painting. Lawrence used simplicity and repetition to demonstrate and emphasize the experience of the migrants. This piece shows socially engaged art, where artists use their work as a platform to address social issues and advocate for change. This is a prime example of one of the things African American art brought to the table. This piece is simple and concise and I enjoy it. It’s a piece that I would definitely have at my house because of its powerful meaning and because I can relate to it.
20th Century African American Art, Smithsonian American Art Museum https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/20th-century-african-american-art (Accessed 2023-07-18)
Harlem Renaissance, The Art Story
https://www.theartstory.org/movement/harlem-renaissance/ (Accessed 2023-07-18)
I really like your blog and how you connected each artwork to the theme of African Americans. The early modern era was one that was full of discrimination against pretty much any group that wasn’t white. It is really cool to see how African Americans still chose to put themselves out there with their art. I really like every piece you chose, but the last one especially. I think I like it the most because of the story it tells. It doesn’t hide the fact that racial oppression is real and prominent in society.
ReplyDeleteI debated between The influence of African Americans or the influence of The Great Depression. I went with the latter. I am glad you choose this first. Your analysis of the work you shared shows the talent and influence of African Americans. I recently watched a documentary on Beauford Delaney; this man's life was amazing, inspiring, and heartbreaking. Here is the link if you have time to check it out. https://youtu.be/xCbXZyWByYU
ReplyDeleteXavier I like how you chose the influence of African Americans. The first painting has vibrant colors and I feel alive by this painting. I love seeing the second painting about Harlem. When i was growing up I read about the people from Harlem and how they dressed. This painting catches the elegance of the two people. The third painting shows to me the movement of African Americans from souther cities to northern cities the heart and determination that they had. I enjoyed your blog immensely and very informative. These three paintings combined appeal to my inner history mind wants to know more.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your description of the Can Fire in the Park because the energy radiating from the painting really looks like it is about to vibrate off the canvas. It comes alive with the bright color palette and the whole scene feels like hip improvisational jazz music. The characters give off a cool vibe like they'd be real fun to hang out with.
ReplyDelete