Thursday, February 24, 2011

Harlem Renaissance Art



      The Harlem Renaissance was said to be "an expression of African American social thought and culture which took place in a newly formed black community in the neighborhood of Harlem". At this time visual art like many different types of art were very popular and it was something many people admired. Through there art visual artist played a key role in creating an image of the "New Negro". African American would talk through there art, showing people that they have have talents as well. The outburst was so huge,it was called a the "art era" and is still called that to this day.
    
      This piece is called "Nightlife" it  was done in 1943 by a famous visual artist named Archibald Motley Jr.,in this piece Motley wanted to take viewers inside of one of Chicago nightspots. It was said that the image was meant to leave people's troubles behind. Once they step into the nightlife, people would feel the positive energy going around the room and hear the sound of the jazz bands playing and they would see  people dancing. There's was nothing but upbeat energy in the air, this poem sent a message to many people that said, even when things get tough there's always a place you can go. All you have to to is follow the rhythm of the beat and thumping of peoples feet.
     
      I think that this painting is a very beautiful piece of artwork. I think the vibrant mixes of colors in the piece makes it look more fun and lively. I think this piece definitely represents the fun in Harlem and it shows the different art  forms that people used. It shows its viewers in different ways what the Harlem Renaissance was about in just this one image. If you needed anything to tell what the Harlem Renaissance was about without words, I think this would be the best piece for you.

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