BAM

By glizbobb78
  • Period: to

    Black Art Movements

    The Black Arts Movement (1965–1985) focused on art that showed Black life, pride, and culture. Artists used bright colors, strong images, and bold patterns to celebrate community, everyday life, and resistance to racism. During the Civil Rights and Black Power eras, their work gave Black voices more visibility and challenged stereotypes. Faith Ringgold, Emma Amos, and Wadsworth Jarrell created paintings showing identity, strength, and empowerment.
  • Ringgold, Faith. The Flag Is Bleeding. 1967. Oil on canvas. Private collection. 72 × 96 in (182.88 × 243.84 cm).

    Ringgold, Faith. The Flag Is Bleeding. 1967. Oil on canvas. Private collection. 72 × 96 in (182.88 × 243.84 cm).

    Ringgold uses the American flag to call attention to the country’s struggles with racism and injustice. The bleeding effect shows how much pain and conflict were happening during this time in history. By placing Black figures inside the flag, she makes viewers question who truly gets freedom and protection in America.
  • Jarrell, Wadsworth. Black Family. 1969. Acrylic on canvas. Various AfriCOBRA exhibitions.46 × 36 in (116.8 × 91.4 cm).

    Jarrell, Wadsworth. Black Family. 1969. Acrylic on canvas. Various AfriCOBRA exhibitions.46 × 36 in (116.8 × 91.4 cm).

    Jarrell paints a Black family standing together with pride, showing unity as something powerful and meaningful. His use of glowing colors and stylized shapes gives the scene a hopeful and uplifting feeling. The artwork challenges negative stereotypes by presenting the family with love, respect, and dignity.
  • Jarrell, Wadsworth. Revolutionary (Angela Davis). 1971. Acrylic on canvas. Private collection/AfriCOBRA exhibitions. 64 × 51 in (162.6 × 129.5 cm)

    Jarrell, Wadsworth. Revolutionary (Angela Davis). 1971. Acrylic on canvas. Private collection/AfriCOBRA exhibitions. 64 × 51 in (162.6 × 129.5 cm)

    This portrait presents Angela Davis as a strong and determined figure who inspired many people fighting for change. Jarrell’s bright colors and repeated words create a loud, powerful feeling, almost like a chant or rally. The painting celebrates courage, intelligence, and the push for equality.
  • Amos, Emma. Josephine and Company. 1974. Acrylic and textile elements on canvas. 48 × 90 in (121.92 × 228.6 cm).

    Amos, Emma. Josephine and Company. 1974. Acrylic and textile elements on canvas. 48 × 90 in (121.92 × 228.6 cm).

    This painting highlights the everyday presence and confidence of Black women, showing them as active and important figures. Amos uses bright colors, patterns, and fabric elements to give the scene energy and texture. The work reminds viewers that Black women deserve to be seen and valued in art, not overlooked or stereotyped.
  • Ringgold, Faith. Subway Graffiti. 1980. Acrylic on canvas. Private/Museum collections. 1.5 × 2.1 m (59 × 83 in).

    Ringgold, Faith. Subway Graffiti. 1980. Acrylic on canvas. Private/Museum collections. 1.5 × 2.1 m (59 × 83 in).

    This painting captures the busy and sometimes harsh environment of the subway, showing how people and art share the same public space. Ringgold highlights graffiti not as vandalism, but as a form of expression that reflects real urban life. The work brings attention to the voices and stories found in everyday places, especially among people who aren’t always heard.