Spotlight!

Aaron Douglas

Harlem Renaissance artist Aaron Douglas is known for his artworks that promoted economic and racial equality in turbulent times.  A few weeks ago I had the privilege of seeing some of his work at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's " Art + Jazz" event, a collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center.  I went back last week and saw his artwork "Let My People Go" up close and personal.  Two reasons I love the work:
1.  He highlights the current events of the times.  Douglas wasn't afraid to be vocal in his artwork, his work put a spotlight on, slavery, lynching, segregation and inequality in the States.
2. His use of line work, contrast and value speak to me!  There are a lot of jagged edges in his artwork and although that can be disturbing sometimes it works in his pieces, the sharp edges convey the mood.  His work has rhythm to it which is fitting for the jazzy era.   Douglas' work just looks like music (Amazing).  Looking at his work I feel like I know what he is listening to and thinking about.

I didn't say there was a third reason but I do have one,  the issues of the states back then are not that much different from today's current events unfortunately.  The violence, inequality and injustice is still much the same.  Douglas' work has inspired me to speak out and speak loud in my own work.  This will be my soap box and my protesting.  Speak up!

Check out his artworks below

For a little more info on Douglas visit http://prospect.org/article/art-social-justice

"Let My People Go"  Currently at the Met

"Defiance"

"Congo"