Leo Martínez
Jacob Lawrence, a pioneering African American artist known for his vibrant and narrative-driven works, painted his seminal series *The Migration of the Negro* (later referred to as *The Great Migration*) in 1940–1941 while living in Harlem, New York. This groundbreaking series of 60 tempera paintings chronicles the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century, a pivotal moment in American history. Lawrence created the series in his small apartment on 125th Street, where he meticulously researched and depicted the social, economic, and cultural shifts of this transformative period. His choice of Harlem as his workspace was significant, as it was a cultural epicenter of the African American experience, deeply connected to the themes he explored in his art. The series was first exhibited at the Downtown Gallery in New York, making Lawrence the first African American artist to be represented by a prominent New York gallery. Through his powerful visual storytelling, Lawrence not only documented the Great Migration but also elevated it as a cornerstone of African American identity and history.
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What You'll Learn
- Early Life and Influences: Lawrence's Harlem upbringing shaped his artistic vision and interest in African American history
- Series Creation: Painted in 1940-41, the series depicts the African American migration to the North
- Artistic Style: Known for dynamic compositions, bold colors, and narrative storytelling in tempera paint
- Historical Context: Reflects the mass movement of Black Americans from the South (1916–1970)
- Legacy and Impact: The series is a cornerstone of American art, housed in MoMA
Early Life and Influences: Lawrence's Harlem upbringing shaped his artistic vision and interest in African American history
Jacob Lawrence's early life in Harlem was a crucible for his artistic vision, deeply embedding themes of African American history and community into his work. Born in 1917 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Lawrence moved to Harlem at the age of 13, a pivotal moment that exposed him to the vibrant cultural and social dynamics of the neighborhood. Harlem, during the 1920s and 1930s, was a hub of the Harlem Renaissance, a period of immense creativity and intellectual growth among African Americans. This environment became the fertile ground from which Lawrence's interest in storytelling through art sprouted.
The streets of Harlem were Lawrence's classroom, where he observed the daily struggles, triumphs, and resilience of its residents. These observations would later translate into his narrative-driven paintings, which often depicted scenes of urban life, migration, and historical events. For instance, his experiences in Harlem influenced his decision to paint *The Migration Series* (1940-1941), a seminal work that chronicles the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North. The series is a testament to how his surroundings shaped his artistic focus on collective experiences and historical narratives.
Lawrence's upbringing also introduced him to the rich cultural heritage of African Americans, which he integrated into his artistic style. He was particularly influenced by the African American church, where he witnessed the power of storytelling through song, sermon, and community gatherings. This emphasis on narrative and communal identity is evident in his use of bold colors, dynamic compositions, and sequential storytelling, reminiscent of both African art traditions and the visual language of comics.
A practical takeaway for aspiring artists is to immerse themselves in their immediate environment, much like Lawrence did in Harlem. By deeply engaging with one's surroundings, artists can uncover unique perspectives and stories that resonate universally. For example, keeping a sketchbook to document daily observations or participating in local community events can provide rich material for artistic exploration. Lawrence's life teaches us that art is not created in a vacuum but is a reflection of the world around us, shaped by personal experiences and cultural contexts.
In conclusion, Jacob Lawrence's Harlem upbringing was instrumental in shaping his artistic vision and his commitment to African American history. His ability to transform personal and communal experiences into powerful visual narratives underscores the importance of place and identity in art. By studying Lawrence's life and work, we gain insights into how artists can draw from their environments to create meaningful and impactful art.
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Series Creation: Painted in 1940-41, the series depicts the African American migration to the North
Jacob Lawrence, a pioneering artist of the Harlem Renaissance, created his seminal work, *The Migration Series*, in 1940-41, painting it in his small apartment in Harlem, New York. This location was no accident—Harlem was the cultural epicenter of African American life during the early 20th century, making it the ideal setting for Lawrence to immerse himself in the stories and experiences of the Great Migration. The series, comprising 60 tempera panels, chronicles the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North between 1916 and 1970. Lawrence’s choice of Harlem as his workspace underscores the series’ deep connection to the community it portrays.
The creation process itself was methodical and deliberate. Lawrence worked on the series in his modest apartment, where he meticulously planned each panel to ensure a cohesive narrative. He used bold, flat colors and simplified forms, a style influenced by his training at the American Artists School and his exposure to African art. This approach not only made the series visually striking but also accessible, allowing viewers to engage with complex themes of displacement, opportunity, and resilience. The physical constraints of his workspace—limited by size and resources—forced Lawrence to focus on the essence of each scene, distilling the migration’s vast scope into intimate, powerful images.
What sets *The Migration Series* apart is its dual focus on individual stories and collective history. Lawrence did not merely illustrate historical events; he humanized them. Panels like *During World War I, There Was a Great Demand for Workers in the North* and *In the North, Many Families Lived in Crowded Rooms* capture both the economic pull of the North and the challenges migrants faced. By painting in Harlem, Lawrence was surrounded by the descendants of these migrants, ensuring his work resonated with authenticity and empathy. This series is not just a historical record but a testament to the enduring impact of the Great Migration on American society.
To fully appreciate *The Migration Series*, consider viewing it as a narrative sequence rather than individual pieces. Lawrence numbered each panel and provided captions, guiding viewers through the migration’s timeline. When examining the series, pay attention to recurring motifs—trains, families, and urban landscapes—that tie the panels together. For educators or enthusiasts, creating a visual timeline alongside the series can deepen understanding of its historical context. Additionally, pairing the series with contemporary accounts or literature from the Harlem Renaissance can provide a richer, interdisciplinary perspective.
Practical tips for engaging with *The Migration Series* include visiting institutions like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), which jointly owns the series with the Phillips Collection, to see the panels in person. For those unable to travel, high-resolution digital archives are available online, allowing for detailed examination of Lawrence’s technique. Educators can use the series as a springboard for discussions on migration, identity, and social change, encouraging students to create their own visual narratives inspired by Lawrence’s style. By immersing oneself in the series’ creation and context, one gains not only an appreciation for Lawrence’s artistry but also a deeper understanding of the transformative era it depicts.
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Artistic Style: Known for dynamic compositions, bold colors, and narrative storytelling in tempera paint
Jacob Lawrence painted *The Migration Series* (also known as *The Great Migration*) in Harlem, New York, during the 1940s, a period of cultural ferment and artistic innovation. His choice of tempera paint—a medium often associated with Renaissance masters but rarely used in 20th-century modernism—was deliberate. Tempera’s fast-drying properties allowed Lawrence to layer colors and build depth, a technique essential for his dynamic compositions. This medium became his signature, enabling him to achieve the bold, flat planes of color that define his work. Harlem, with its vibrant community and rich cultural narratives, provided the backdrop for Lawrence’s storytelling, but it was tempera that gave his vision its visual power.
To replicate Lawrence’s style in tempera, start by preparing your palette with highly pigmented colors—think primary hues like ultramarine blue, cadmium red, and lemon yellow. Mix these with a tempera medium (a binder like egg yolk or a modern acrylic substitute) to ensure opacity and quick drying. Lawrence often used a limited palette, focusing on contrasts rather than gradients, so resist the urge to over-blend. Instead, apply colors in distinct, bold strokes, allowing each hue to retain its individuality. This approach mirrors his narrative technique, where each panel in *The Migration Series* stands alone yet contributes to a larger story.
One of the most striking aspects of Lawrence’s work is his use of dynamic compositions to convey movement and tension. To achieve this, study his panel *During the World War There Was a Great Migration North* (Panel 1), where diagonal lines and overlapping figures create a sense of urgency. When composing your own piece, sketch rough outlines first, focusing on the placement of figures and objects to guide the viewer’s eye. Use geometric shapes—circles, triangles, and rectangles—to simplify forms and emphasize energy. Remember, Lawrence’s storytelling relied on clarity, so avoid clutter; every element should serve the narrative.
While tempera is forgiving in its quick drying time, it demands precision. Unlike oil or acrylic, tempera does not allow for extensive blending or layering without careful planning. To mimic Lawrence’s bold colors, apply thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. For darker tones, mix complementary colors rather than relying on black, as Lawrence often did to maintain vibrancy. Finally, seal your work with a fixative to prevent smudging—a practical tip Lawrence himself would have appreciated, given the fragility of tempera.
Lawrence’s *The Migration Series* is a masterclass in visual storytelling, but its impact lies not just in its subject matter but in its execution. By embracing tempera’s limitations and leveraging its strengths, he created a style that was both modern and timeless. For artists today, his work serves as a reminder that medium and method are inseparable from message. Whether you’re depicting historical narratives or contemporary stories, tempera’s bold, dynamic qualities can elevate your work—provided you approach it with intention and discipline.
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Historical Context: Reflects the mass movement of Black Americans from the South (1916–1970)
Jacob Lawrence painted *The Migration Series* in 1940–1941, capturing the essence of the Great Migration, a transformative period in American history. This series of 60 panels chronicles the mass movement of Black Americans from the rural South to the urban North, a phenomenon that spanned from 1916 to 1970. Lawrence’s work is not merely a visual narrative but a profound reflection of the social, economic, and political forces that drove this exodus. By examining the historical context, we can better understand why this migration occurred and its lasting impact on Black communities and the nation as a whole.
The Great Migration was fueled by a combination of push and pull factors. In the South, Black Americans faced systemic oppression, including Jim Crow laws, lynchings, and sharecropping systems that perpetuated poverty. These conditions pushed millions to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Simultaneously, the North offered a pull: industrial jobs created by World War I, relatively less overt racial violence, and the promise of education and political rights. Lawrence’s panels depict this duality, showing crowded trains, bustling cities, and the harsh realities of both departure and arrival. For instance, *Panel 16* illustrates the harsh working conditions in Northern factories, while *Panel 20* highlights the cultural vibrancy of Harlem, a hub for Black artistic and intellectual life during the Harlem Renaissance.
To fully grasp the significance of this migration, consider its scale: approximately 6 million Black Americans relocated during this period. This movement reshaped demographics, with cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York experiencing dramatic population shifts. However, the transition was not without challenges. Northern cities often lacked adequate housing, leading to overcrowding and the rise of segregated neighborhoods. Lawrence’s work does not shy away from these complexities, portraying both the hope and hardship of the migrants. For educators or historians, using *The Migration Series* as a teaching tool can help students visualize the human experience behind statistical data. Pairing specific panels with primary sources, such as letters or newspaper articles from the era, can deepen understanding of the migrants’ lived realities.
A comparative analysis of Lawrence’s work with other artistic representations of the Great Migration reveals its uniqueness. Unlike literature or photography, Lawrence’s tempera paintings distill complex narratives into symbolic, accessible images. For example, *Panel 3*, titled *From Every Southern Town*, uses abstract shapes and bold colors to convey the mass movement, making it relatable across generations. This approach allows viewers to connect emotionally with the historical context, bridging the gap between past and present. For those studying or teaching this period, encouraging a comparative study of Lawrence’s work alongside texts like Richard Wright’s *Native Son* or photographs by Gordon Parks can provide a richer, multidisciplinary perspective.
Finally, the Great Migration’s legacy is still felt today. It laid the groundwork for the Civil Rights Movement, as migrants brought their experiences of Southern oppression to Northern cities, fostering activism and political organizing. Lawrence’s series serves as a reminder of this connection, emphasizing the resilience and determination of those who sought a better life. For contemporary audiences, reflecting on this history can inspire conversations about ongoing struggles for racial equality. Practical tips for engaging with this topic include visiting museums that house *The Migration Series*, such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, or organizing community discussions centered on Lawrence’s work and its relevance to current social issues. By doing so, we honor the migrants’ journey and ensure their story continues to inspire future generations.
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Legacy and Impact: The series is a cornerstone of American art, housed in MoMA
Jacob Lawrence painted *The Migration Series* in Harlem, a neighborhood that was both his home and a cultural epicenter of the Great Migration. This series, completed in 1941 when Lawrence was just 23, chronicles the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century. Today, the series is housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where it serves as a cornerstone of American art, offering a profound exploration of history, identity, and resilience. Its placement in MoMA underscores its significance not just as a historical document but as a masterpiece of modern artistic expression.
The series’ legacy lies in its ability to bridge the gap between art and history, making it an indispensable educational tool. Each of the 60 panels, painted in Lawrence’s signature style of dynamic shapes and vibrant colors, captures a specific aspect of the migration experience—from the hardships of sharecropping to the promise of industrial jobs. Educators and historians often use these panels to illustrate the complexities of this transformative period, ensuring that the stories of millions are not forgotten. For instance, Panel 16, *“In the North the black population increased tremendously”*, is frequently analyzed in classrooms to discuss urbanization and its social implications.
MoMA’s stewardship of *The Migration Series* has amplified its impact, exposing it to a global audience and cementing its place in the canon of American art. The museum’s decision to display the panels in their entirety—a rare occurrence due to their fragility—highlights their collective power. Visitors are encouraged to view the series as a narrative sequence, much like a visual novel, which enhances its emotional and intellectual resonance. This approach has inspired contemporary artists to explore similar themes of migration and identity, proving that Lawrence’s work remains relevant in today’s socio-political climate.
Practically, MoMA’s conservation efforts ensure the series’ longevity, employing techniques like controlled lighting and humidity to preserve the tempera paint. For art enthusiasts and educators, the museum offers guided tours and digital resources that delve into Lawrence’s process and the historical context of the Great Migration. These resources are particularly valuable for younger audiences, aged 12 and up, who can engage with the series through interactive workshops and online curricula. By making *The Migration Series* accessible, MoMA not only honors Lawrence’s vision but also empowers future generations to understand and appreciate this pivotal chapter in American history.
Ultimately, *The Migration Series* at MoMA is more than a collection of paintings—it is a living testament to the power of art to shape collective memory. Its legacy challenges viewers to confront the past while inspiring dialogue about the present. Whether you’re an art historian, a student, or a casual observer, the series offers a unique lens through which to explore the enduring impact of the Great Migration. Visit MoMA, engage with the panels, and let Jacob Lawrence’s masterpiece remind you of the stories that define us.
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Frequently asked questions
Jacob Lawrence painted the *Migration Series* in Harlem, New York City, where he lived and worked during the 1940s.
Lawrence was inspired by the Great Migration, the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North and West between 1916 and 1970, seeking better opportunities and escaping racial segregation.
The *Migration Series* is jointly owned by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City and The Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., where it is often displayed.
Jacob Lawrence painted the *Migration Series* independently, though his wife, artist Gwendolyn Knight, provided support and encouragement throughout the creative process.
