Aaron Douglas

Aaron Douglas (1899-1979) is the leading visual artist of the Harlem Renaissance, the first African-American to explore modernism and to reflect African art in his paintings, murals, and illustrations. For Douglas, the movement was a special expression of African-Americanism that should be screened from the influence of white culture. Even though white patrons gave generous support, Douglas regarded the Harlem Renaissance as a rare and exceptional black movement and struggled to maintain its clear identity. This exploration of Douglas's life and career is filled with reproductions of his art. From previously unavailable source materials, including letters to his wife, Amy Kirschke traces the struggle of this fascinating artist to advance the Harlem Renaissance and to establish its particular imprint.