Why Is Harlem Renaissance Art Important

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Harlem Renaissance Art The Harlem Renaissance established culture for African Americans for the first time in history. The Harlem Renaissance took place in America during the 1920s & 1930s. Not to be confused with the Renaissance period during the 14th & 17th century in Europe. The Harlem Renaissance setting was Harlem, New York. It was a time for African Americans voices to be heard. African Americans migrated from the South, which had terrible living conditions, to the North. It did not matter how poor you were, your art could still be heard. Aaron Douglas and Jacob Lawrence were the most famous artists of this time. The art made during this era represents personal struggles of this age and shows their place in society. Aaron Douglas, Jacob Lawrence, and art itself made a huge impact on African American culture then and now. …show more content…

He was the father of African American art. Douglas tended to use geometric shapes in his work, along with cubism. He not only did paintings but also murals. Aaron Douglas studied all over the United States. Eventually, he settled in Harlem, New York and was part of the new art movement. Douglas became famous overnight with his illustrations for Alain Locke’s book. He quickly became engaged by the culture in Harlem. Douglas captured the struggles and stories of African Americans and this is why he was so beloved. 6 years later Douglas studied abroad in Paris. Then, he was asked to paint 4 murals in New York City. He spent the rest of his days teaching at Fisk University. Douglas went on to spend his passion for 27 years at the University. Douglas generated the most recognized art of the Harlem Renaissance, making him have an extensive influence on the Harlem Renaissance art movement (The Editors of The Encyclopædia Britannica). But, an art movement cannot be lead alone, also contributing was Jacob

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