The Migration Series

Definition

The Migration Series is a collection of 60 paintings created by African American artist Jacob Lawrence that depicts the Great Migration, the movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North between World War I and World War II. This series serves not only as a visual narrative of the migration experience but also reflects the broader social changes and struggles faced by African Americans during this transformative period in American history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jacob Lawrence began working on The Migration Series in 1940, and it was completed in 1941, capturing key moments of the migration experience through vibrant colors and dynamic compositions.
2. The series is structured into panels that are meant to be viewed sequentially, telling a coherent story about the migration journey and the experiences of African Americans during this time.
3. Lawrence's use of symbolism and stylized figures helps convey emotions related to hope, struggle, and resilience, making it a powerful visual representation of the African American experience.
4. The Migration Series gained national attention and became significant in the context of both art and history, illustrating the intersection of race, migration, and social change in America.
5. Today, The Migration Series is housed in major art institutions, with panels split between the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., and the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

Review Questions

• How does The Migration Series reflect the personal experiences of those who participated in the Great Migration?
  • The Migration Series captures the essence of individual experiences during the Great Migration by portraying various scenes that highlight both struggles and aspirations. Each panel showcases significant moments such as families packing their belongings or arriving in northern cities, conveying a sense of urgency and hope. By focusing on personal narratives within a larger historical context, Lawrence effectively gives voice to those who faced challenges while seeking better lives.
• In what ways does The Migration Series serve as a form of social commentary regarding the conditions faced by African Americans during this period?
  • The Migration Series acts as a powerful form of social commentary by illustrating not just the physical journey but also the emotional toll of migration. Lawrence emphasizes themes such as racial discrimination, economic hardship, and community resilience through his artwork. By depicting these realities vividly, he raises awareness about the broader societal issues faced by African Americans during their quest for equality and opportunity in urban centers.
• Evaluate how Jacob Lawrence's artistic techniques in The Migration Series contribute to its overall impact on viewers' understanding of African American history.
  • Jacob Lawrence's artistic techniques significantly enhance The Migration Series' impact on viewers by using vibrant colors, bold lines, and stylized forms to evoke emotional responses. His choice to depict scenes in a narrative format encourages viewers to engage with each panel as part of a larger story. This approach not only illustrates historical events but also connects audiences to the human experiences behind them. By utilizing visual storytelling, Lawrence deepens our understanding of African American history while inviting reflection on ongoing issues related to race and migration.

Related terms

Great Migration: The mass movement of African Americans from the Southern United States to Northern cities in search of better economic opportunities and to escape racial segregation and violence.

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, which celebrated African American cultural expressions and challenged racial stereotypes.

Social Realism: An art movement that aims to draw attention to the everyday conditions of the working class and the poor, often highlighting social issues and injustices.