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African-American Art has two distinct aspects. One aspect is racial and the other cultural. To a degree, both aspects are interconnected, yet African-American art can also be seen as unique representations of each aspect. A related aspect of African-American art is work rendered by artists who use African influences in their work, but who are not themselves African-American's.
Culturally, African-American art blossomed from the diverse wealth of traditions and artistic stylings that made the journey from Africa to North America.
Pre-Civil War
Artwork rendered by people who traced their lineage back to Africa followed two very different forms, based in part upon whether the artist was free or a slave. Before the civil war, there were many well-respected free African-American artists. They worked in a variety of mediums including metalwork, painting, and sculpture. The majority of these free artisans used westernized styles, and their work was indistinguishable from that of their white counterparts.
Reconstruction - 1900
After the civil war, African-American art took on a hopeful vigor fueled by the dream of equality. When it failed to materialize, African-American art began to take on an eerie, moody feel that mimicked the feelings of desperation and resentment that the artists felt, in regard to their situation - both as individuals and as members of a larger community. Many African-American artists, unable to work in the repressive atmosphere of the late 1800's moved to France and other countries where their work was judged on its merits, not on the color of the artist.
Early 1900's
The early 1900's found many African-American artists expressing a strident pride in their heritage. Portraits and sculptures of prominent African-American became widely available.
The Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance began after World War I as African-American's from the South flooded into northern urban areas. The sense of comradery and freedom found in these larger African-American communities, served to encourage artists, and provided them with a ready market for their wears.
The 30's and 40's
The 30's and the 40's found more and more African-American artists finding acceptance, with all racial groups. The Federal government via the Federal Arts Projects sponsored many artists, and their work was exhibited nationwide. Items that had a folk-art feel were extremely popular.
Post-War Years
With the beginning of the civil rights struggle, African-American artists began to make a much greater use of African motifs and images in their work. As pride increased, so did the use of elements that harkened back to Africa.
The Black Arts Movement
The 1960's and 70's saw African-American culture and political concerns becoming a major artistic theme. Since them, African-American art has become a mainstream phenomenon. Museums dedicated to African-American art, and artisans, are found in almost every major city.
Decorating Tips
Walls:
Freestanding Art Work
While paintings and other hangable artworks are common decorating choices, don't overlook freestanding objects like baskets, ceramic bowls, and sculptures. These works can be found in both traditional and modern styles and can afford a transitional focus between wall art and household furnishings.
Furniture
For the most part, a specific style of furniture that can be classes as African-American does not exist. However, it is very easy to take an object and give it an African-American flare. This can be achieved by decorating your items with Africanized textiles, artworks, and Afrocentric products. You can also add to the overall effect by using African textiles to create unique window dressings.
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