Into the Harlem Renaissance

A celebration of African American identity in the early 20th century

Into the Harlem Renaissance (1920 - 1940)

As part of our revised mission statement, we will be having two weeks of traditional Western art and two weeks of POC-focused movements. In light of BLM, we want to promote black history by focusing this week’s movement on the Harlem Renaissance.

Contrary to popular belief, the Harlem Renaissance did not only take place in New York City’s Harlem neighborhood. Though it does have its roots in this area, the movement expanded nationwide and energized American Art by introducing a different perspective on the traditionally white narrative.

Though more commonly known for its literary and performing arts, the Harlem Renaissance encompasses all aspects of creation, having a firm place in the visual arts. It broke free from the rigid confines of Victorian values and middle-class formalities which held predominately discriminatory views of African American life. The movement formally spans from the end of World War I and up to the beginning of World War II. The works of this time placed a heavy focus on having pride in one’s African American identity - bringing awareness to inequality and discrimination while showcasing aspects of their lives and culture.

It is important to note that unlike most of the movements we have covered on this page, there is no defined style for the Harlem Renaissance. It is simply a celebration of history, legacy, and identity - using their voices as vehicles for cultural and political expression.

Aaron Douglas is given the title of the “father of African American Art,” using cubism to create graphic and geometric representations on his African heritage. Other leading artists during this time are Palmer Hayden, Sargent Claude Johnson, William Johnson, and Archibald John Motley, Jr.

And that’s art.