The "Harlem Renaissance" collection at the Met ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s “Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” collection is treasure trove of artistic and cultural significance. Highlights of this exhibition showcase a vibrant and dynamic period in American history. This was a time when African-American artists writers, musicians and thinkers flourished in Harlem, New York City. This transformative era from the 1920s to the 1930s was a time of immense creativity. The innovation is reflected in the diverse range of artworks on display at The Met.

Highlights of The Met’s Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism exhibition

•Aaron Douglas’ powerful murals. These works celebrate African-American culture and heritage. Douglas was a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance art movement. He was known for his distinctive blend of modernist aesthetics with traditional African motifs. His murals are testament to his commitment to promote black pride and identity through art.

aaron douglas collection -- Harlem Renaissance — Aaron Douglas • (L-R) “The Creation”, “Noah Built the Ark”, “Let My People Go”, “The Judgement Day”, “Aspects of Negro Life: From Slavery through Reconstruction”. Sculpture up front Augusta Savage’s “Lift Every Voice and Sing (The Harp)”, Rear sculpture, Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller‘s “Maquette for Ethiopia Awakening”. — Harlem Renaissance

•Archibald Motley was known for his vibrant and dynamic paintings. These works captured the spirit of urban life in Chicago during Jazz Age. His use of bold colors and expressive brushwork reflected the energy and vitality of the Harlem Renaissance. The music scene during the Harlem Renaissance also left an indelible mark on American culture with jazz becoming synonymous with this era.

Archibald J. Motley, Jr._Blues -- Harlem Renaissance — Archibald J. Motley, Jr.’s “Blues” — Harlem Renaissance

•James Van Der Zee was renowned photographer who specialized in capturing beauty and dignity of African-American life. His portraits exuded elegance and sophistication. They challenged stereotypes about black identity in America.

James Van Der Zee's, — James Van Der Zee’s, “Couple, Harlem” — Harlem Renaissance

•Charles Henry Alston was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. He was known for his powerful murals that depicted scenes from African-American history. His work celebrated resilience and strength of African-Americans in face of adversity.

Charles Henry Alston, "Girl in a Red Dress" (Painting: Oil on canvas, 28 * 22 in. (71.1 * 55.9 cm)) -- Harlem Renaissance — Charles Henry Alston, “Girl in a Red Dress” (Painting: Oil on canvas, 28 * 22 in. (71.1 * 55.9 cm)) — Harlem Renaissance

•William Henry Johnson was an influential painter. His bold use of color and form helped to redefine modernism in America. His work reflected his deep connection to his African roots. It showcased themes of identity and heritage.

William Henry Johnson's — William Henry Johnson’s “Street Life, Harlem” — Harlem Renaissance

•Laura Wheeler Waring was talented portrait artist who gained recognition for her sensitive portrayals of prominent figures in African-American society. Her work highlighted diversity and complexity of black identity. It challenged prevailing stereotypes about race.

Laura Wheeler Waring, "Girl in a Green Cap", 1943, Oil on canvas, 30 * 25 in. (76.2 * 63.5 cm), 43.6.P Howard University -- Harlem Renaissance — Laura Wheeler Waring, “Girl in a Green Cap”, 1943, Oil on canvas, 30 * 25 in. (76.2 * 63.5 cm), 43.6.P Howard University –Harlem Renaissance

The Met’s collection includes photographs and memorabilia from legendary jazz musicians Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday. These artifacts offer a glimpse into vibrant nightlife and creative energy that permeated Harlem during this time. Literature played significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Harlem Renaissance. Writers like Langston Hughes, James Weldon Johnson, Alain Leroy Locke and Zora Neale Hurston and Aaron Douglas making substantial contributions to American literature. The Met’s exhibition features rare manuscripts first editions and personal belongings. These belonged to these literary giants. Visitors can immerse themselves in their groundbreaking works. These continue to resonate with readers today.

Lastly, The Metropolitan Museum Of Art’s Harlem Renaissance collection offers a comprehensive overview of this pivotal moment in American history. African-American culture thrived against all odds. From visual arts to music, literature, every aspect of this cultural renaissance is represented at The Met. It is done with depth and authenticity. By exploring these highlights at The Met’s exhibition visitors can gain a deeper appreciation of African-American cultural importance in general. This exhibition fosters understanding for the enduring legacy of this transformative period in American cultural history. Photographs of Harlem Renaissance Greats

Dr. Denise Murrell, Curator of the “Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dr. Denise Murrell, Curator@Metropolitan Museum of Art- Photo/ Lisa DuBois. Harlem Renaissance — Dr. Denise Murrell, Curator@Metropolitan Museum of Art- Photo/ Lisa DuBois

Dr. Denise Murrell is prominent art historian and curator known for her groundbreaking work in the field of African-American art history. She received her Ph.D. in art history from Columbia University. There she focused on the representation of black subjects in French art of the 19th century.

Murrell’s research has shed new light on artists such as Edouard Manet and Jean-Léon Gérôme. She revealed how they engaged with issues of race and identity in their work. Her dissertation is titled “Seeing Laure: Race and Modernity from Manet’s Olympia to Matisse, Bearden and Beyond.” It has been widely praised for its innovative approach to understanding the intersection of race and art history.

In addition to her academic work, Murrell has curated several groundbreaking exhibitions including “Posing Modernity: The Black Model from Manet and Matisse to Today” at Columbia University’s Wallach Art Gallery. Through her scholarship and curatorial practice, Denise Murrell has made significant contributions to field of African-American art history. She challenges traditional narratives and expands our understanding of the role that race plays in shaping artistic production.

Dr. Murrell’s appointment as curator of the “Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” at Metropolitan Museum of Art is a significant milestone in recognizing contributions of African-American artists to art world. Murrell’s background in art history and her passion for highlighting marginalized voices makes her a fitting choice for this role.

As curator Murrell has the opportunity to showcase work of artists Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden and Augusta Savage, whose contributions to Harlem Renaissance have often been overlooked in traditional art history narratives. By bringing these artists into spotlight, Murrell is challenging existing power structures within the art world and advocating for more inclusive understanding of artistic excellence.

Dr. Murrell’s work at Met also serves as platform for engaging with contemporary issues related to race identity and representation. Through exhibitions, educational programs and public outreach initiatives, she is creating space for dialogue around important topics. She is also fostering a greater sense of community among diverse audiences.

Denise Murrell’s role as curator of Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism at the Met is not only testament to her expertise in art history but also a reflection of her commitment to social justice and equity within arts. Her efforts are paving the way for a more inclusive and representative art world.