The Migration Series

Definition

The Migration Series is a collection of paintings created by artist Jacob Lawrence that depicts the African American migration from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century. Through a series of dynamic and expressive panels, Lawrence captures the struggles, hopes, and experiences of African Americans as they sought better opportunities and escape from racial oppression, connecting art with social history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jacob Lawrence painted The Migration Series between 1940 and 1941, consisting of 60 panels that tell a narrative of the migration experience.
2. Each panel in The Migration Series uses bold colors and flat shapes to convey emotions and highlight the themes of struggle and resilience.
3. The series was first exhibited at the Downtown Gallery in New York City in 1941, gaining immediate attention for its powerful storytelling through visual art.
4. Lawrence's work is noted for its innovative composition and use of visual rhythm, making it an essential part of both American art history and African American cultural expression.
5. The Migration Series not only reflects personal experiences but also serves as a historical document that captures the broader societal changes occurring during this time period.

Review Questions

• How does Jacob Lawrence's artistic style in The Migration Series contribute to the emotional impact of the narratives presented?
  • Jacob Lawrence's use of bold colors and flat shapes in The Migration Series enhances the emotional resonance of each panel. His dynamic compositions create a sense of movement and urgency, effectively portraying the struggles and hopes of African Americans during their migration. By employing a simplified yet powerful visual language, Lawrence allows viewers to connect deeply with the experiences depicted, transforming personal stories into universal themes of resilience and aspiration.
• Discuss how The Migration Series reflects the historical context of the Great Migration and its significance in American history.
  • The Migration Series serves as a poignant visual narrative that encapsulates the Great Migration, a pivotal event where millions of African Americans left the oppressive conditions of the South for better opportunities in Northern cities. Through his artwork, Lawrence documents not only individual stories but also broader themes such as racial discrimination and economic hardship. The significance lies in how this series provides a historical lens on a transformative era in American society, highlighting both challenges faced by migrants and their quest for dignity and advancement.
• Evaluate the influence of The Migration Series on contemporary art and social movements related to racial issues.
  • The Migration Series has had a profound impact on contemporary art by inspiring artists to address social issues through their work. Lawrence's ability to merge artistry with powerful narratives around race and migration has encouraged modern artists to explore similar themes in their creations. Additionally, this series has influenced social movements by providing visual representation to the struggles against systemic racism. It serves as a reminder of history while continuing to resonate with ongoing conversations about migration, identity, and civil rights.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, showcasing the flourishing of African American arts and intellectual thought.

Great Migration: The mass movement of over six million African Americans from the rural Southern United States to urban areas in the North and West between 1916 and 1970, seeking improved economic opportunities and escaping Jim Crow laws.

Social Realism: An art movement that aims to draw attention to social issues and the lives of everyday people, often reflecting the struggles faced by marginalized communities.