February 1: Jacob Lawrence
A Daily Journey Through Black History Month
“The Migration Series”: Chronicling a People’s Journey
Story
Jacob Lawrence was one of the most celebrated painters of the Harlem Renaissance. His work vividly depicted the African-American experience, and he’s best known for his groundbreaking series of paintings, The Migration Series. This collection narrates the journey of African-Americans during the Great Migration, as they moved from the rural South to the urban North in search of better opportunities.
Key Quotes
- “I am a part of the movement and the movement is a part of me.”
- “To me, migration means movement and movement means life.”
Cultural Significance
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- A Chronicle of History: The Migration Series documented the hopes, struggles, and resilience of millions of African-Americans during the early 20th century.
- Global Acclaim: His bold colors and storytelling inspired artists worldwide.
Fun Fact
Jacob Lawrence completed The Migration Series at just 24 years old, becoming the first African-American artist exhibited in a major NYC gallery.
Trivia Challenge
Question: How many panels make up Jacob Lawrence’s The Migration Series?
(A) 30 • (B) 50 • (C) 60 • (D) 75
Why Participate?
Write your answer on the day of the Post in the Comment’s Section (include your name) below to be potentially eligible for inclusion in the 2025 Honorary ROUTES Recognition List! Those who answer at least 20 out of the 28 trivia questions correctly will earn a shoutout in our end-of-month celebration post. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the legacy!
Multimedia
- View: Explore Jacob Lawrence’s The Migration Series
- Watch: Reckoning with American History: Jacob Lawrence’s “Struggle”
- View: The vibrant “Harlem Renaissance” collection at the Met ★ ★ ★ ★