The Course
In the decade following World War I, African American cultural production flourished during what has become known as the Harlem Renaissance. Though the movement had a tremendous impact on African American culture, it was a moment of global significance for American visual art. This course will examine the Harlem Renaissance, and its connections to Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and other parts of the U.S. like Chicago and the Deep South. In particular, it focuses on the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality, and how artistic production during the 1920’s and 1930’s both influenced and informed those intersections.
By the end of our journey, you'll not only grasp the historical significance of this cultural epicenter but also understand its profound impact on contemporary American culture and identity. Whether you're looking to enrich your knowledge of African American history, find inspiration for your creative pursuits, or simply explore the power of community and expression, the lessons from this era are timeless and teeming with real-world relevance. Join us to explore an era of extraordinary creativity that continues to shape and inspire our world today!
What You Will Learn
While putting this course together, I focused on making sure you could really immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry often glossed over in history books. I tailored each lesson to not only provide a deep dive into the art of the 1920s but to also make it super accessible, regardless of your prior knowledge.
I’ve meticulously organized the content to guide you smoothly from the Post-Reconstruction era & the early stirrings of the Renaissance, through the music, literature, and visual art that defined an era, leading you right up to its lasting impact on today’s culture.
By the end of this course, you'll have profound appreciation for the iconic figures and the vibrant community they fostered. Plus, the resources—I’ve packed them with interactive elements & inspiring discussions that will keep you engaged and motivated every step of the way!
Curriculum
Your Instructor
For over a decade, Dr. Kelli Morgan has been at the forefront of redefining museum practices through an anti-racist lens. With a robust background as a curator, educator, and activist, she is a fervent advocate for fostering inclusivity within the arts sector. Her work is not only pioneering in the space of progressive museum practice but also deeply resonant with the principles and discussions we explore in the "Drop Me Off in Harlem" course. Dr. Morgan's dedication to training museum staff and emerging curators across the globe further underscores her commitment to cultivating environments where African American art is interpreted and celebrated with the nuance and depth it warrants.
As we delve into Harlem's rich artistic history, Dr. Morgan's expertise becomes invaluable. Her academic foundation in African American Studies and intuitive understanding of African Diasporic visual cultures enrich our classroom discourse, enabling students to engage with Harlem's cultural legacy critically and empathetically. As the Founding Executive Director of the Black Artists Archive, she embodies the very spirit of Harlem Renaissance by actively working to preserve and promote Black art history. It is this passion and connective thread between her work and our course material that brings a unique and empowered perspective to our learning journey.
Vibrant
The Colorful Tapestry of Harlem's Cultural Scene
Rhythmic
Feeling the Pulse of Harlem's Music & Poetry
Historic
Journey Through Harlem's Rich Past and Legacy