Jacob Lawrence

Style: Social Realism; Expressionism;

Place: Atlantic City

Born: 1917

Death: 2000

Biography:

Life and Work

, a prominent figure in American art, was born on September 7, 1917, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and passed away on June 9, 2000, in Seattle, Washington. As an African-American painter, educator, and storyteller, Lawrence's work primarily focused on the portrayal of African-American life, making him a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance movement.

Artistic Style and Themes

Lawrence referred to his style as "dynamic cubism," which was influenced more by the vibrant experiences of his community rather than solely by French art. His paintings often depicted scenes from African-American history, including series on Toussaint L'Ouverture, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, life in Harlem, and the civil rights movement of the 1960s.

• Bar and Grill, a painting showcasing the interior of a café with a wall dividing the space into two distinct realms for whites and blacks, reflects Lawrence's experience with Jim Crow segregation in New Orleans.
• Victory and Defeat, featuring an impenetrable wall of twenty-two black cannonballs, symbolizes the successful siege at Yorktown, Virginia, marking a pivotal moment in American history.

Museums and Collections

Lawrence's work is featured in several prominent museums, including:

• Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C. - Bar and Grill
• University of Washington, Seattle, Washington - Where Lawrence taught art towards the end of his career.

Legacy

As one of the first nationally recognized African-American artists, Jacob Lawrence's legacy extends beyond his artwork. He paved the way for future generations of African-American artists and played a crucial role in documenting the African-American experience through art.

Key Points:

• African-American painter, educator, and storyteller.
• Associated with the Harlem Renaissance movement.
• Known for his "dynamic cubism" style, influenced by community experiences.
• Featured in several prominent museums, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

.