Early Modernism: The Harlem Renaissance
Lois Mailou Jones was a noteworthy visual artist of the Harlem Renaissance movement. She was born, raised and educated in Boston, Massachusetts during a time of great racial bigotries. Despite the ethnic obstacles, her career as an artist thrived for nearly 70 years. It wasn’t her paintings in particular that were representative of the cultural divides, it was her story of success that was indicative of the African American influence during the Harlem Renaissance. During her early career, it was her success as a textile designer that brought her recognition as an artist, as well as a steady pay check. Her talent earned her a position as a Design Instructor at Howard University. But the time and place of her success – a time in which women were not greatly recognized and African Americans were not treated with equality nor were they respected with recognition – her personal success and artistic recognition is unique and impressive. I find inspiration in her fight against the cultural and gender divide.
Personally, I enjoy her paintings because they are bright, vibrant and full of life, even when they depict the hard truths of life. I really enjoy her portrait paintings, and one that sticks out the most to me is the 1929 painting, Negro Youth. Given the time and the cultural divide, this young boy must have faced the harsh prejudice and discrimination. I can see emotional anguish in his face and brow; yet he holds his head high and presents himself in confidence.
Lois Mailou Jones
Negro Youth
1929
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