Jacob

Black Art Movement (BAM)

  • Charles White, General Moses (Harriet Tubman), 1965, Ink on paper, 47 x 68in, Private collection

    Charles White, General Moses (Harriet Tubman), 1965, Ink on paper, 47 x 68in, Private collection

    This art piece is heavily influential to the BAM movement, as the figure depicted is Harriet Tubman. Harriet Tubman was a central figure to the BAM, as her brave lifelong activism work aligns with the primary goals of the Black Art movement. This composition is a token of resistance and liberation.
  • Dana C. Chandler Jr, Black People Break Free of the Sucking, Mother-F-ing White egg (from the Fifteen days of May portfolio),1968, Lithograph, 66 x 45.7 cm, MFA, Boston

    Dana C. Chandler Jr, Black People Break Free of the Sucking, Mother-F-ing White egg (from the Fifteen days of May portfolio),1968, Lithograph, 66 x 45.7 cm, MFA, Boston

    The message in this Lithograph is very direct as it represents African Americans breaking free of their oppressors. It is a major component to the BAM, since the black power fist is the center of the piece. This sends a message of empowerment and determination within African Americans during that era.
  • Dana C. Chandler Jr, Genocide Series No 2. "Lil Junkies Waiting on 'Bro' Pusher", 1970-71, Screen print, 406 x 279 mm, Swann Galleries

    Dana C. Chandler Jr, Genocide Series No 2. "Lil Junkies Waiting on 'Bro' Pusher", 1970-71, Screen print, 406 x 279 mm, Swann Galleries

    This screen print is prominent to the (BAM), since it is highlighting the cycle of drug abuse and addiction throughout the African American community. Additionally this art piece gives a look into the social-political climate during this era. Moreover, the artist may be suggesting social neglect and systemic destruction from oppressors.
  • Dana C. Chandler Jr, What Amerika Means to the Black Man circa,1970, Offset print, 20 x 14 in, Studio Museum

    Dana C. Chandler Jr, What Amerika Means to the Black Man circa,1970, Offset print, 20 x 14 in, Studio Museum

    This is a politically motivated art work that signifies the result of resistance, racism, injustice and inequality. During that era of time a naysayer to the American flag, may be jailed or killed.
  • Ernie Barnes, Ninety-Nine, A' Hunered, 1970, Color lithograph, 23 x 26 3/4 in, Private collections

    Ernie Barnes, Ninety-Nine, A' Hunered, 1970, Color lithograph, 23 x 26 3/4 in, Private collections

    In this composition, one figure is jumping a rope while the other is watching, jump roping is commonly done in African American culture. Therefore, this lithograph is symbolic to the (BAM) through tradition, culture, memory and identity of African Americans. Furthermore, the artist may be referencing resilience through simplicity.
  • Charles White, Love Letter lll, 1973, Charcoal and graphite on paper, 30 1/6 x 22 5/8 in, Private collection

    Charles White, Love Letter lll, 1973, Charcoal and graphite on paper, 30 1/6 x 22 5/8 in, Private collection

    This realistic styled portrait painting, is significant to the BAM movement through its strong symbolism of representation. The woman's expression in the composition brings focus and emotion to the beauty and identity of an African American.
  • Ernie Barnes, The Sugar Shack, 1976, Oil on canvas, 60 x 72 in, Private collection

    Ernie Barnes, The Sugar Shack, 1976, Oil on canvas, 60 x 72 in, Private collection

    This painting is a depiction of African American people dancing with lively energy and emotion. This art piece was produced during a heavily segregated time, where Africans American integration was not allowed. Therefore, Africans Americans used Art and Music as a form of liberation. I believe the artist wonderfully represented African American tradition and culture.