Jacob Lawrence was born on July 9, 1917, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. At the age of 13, he moved to New York City with his siblings, where his mother enrolled him in classes at a Harlem-based arts and crafts settlement house. Despite dropping out of school at the age of 16, Lawrence eventually found his passion for art and began taking classes at the Harlem Art Workshop.
At the age of 23, Lawrence presented his groundbreaking 60-panel series, "The Migration Series," which depicted the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North. This series established Lawrence as a prominent figure in the art world and showcased his unique style influenced by Cubism and the Harlem Renaissance.
Throughout his career, Lawrence continued to create powerful and evocative works that depicted the struggles and experiences of African Americans. He used bold colors and geometric shapes to convey the emotions and stories of his subjects, earning him critical acclaim and recognition.
In addition to his painting, Lawrence also taught art at the University of Washington, sharing his knowledge and passion for art with future generations of artists.
In 1941, Lawrence married fellow painter Gwendolyn Knight, forming a creative partnership that would last throughout their lives. The couple supported each other's artistic endeavors and shared a deep bond rooted in their shared love for art.
Jacob Lawrence's impact on the art world is undeniable. His powerful and thought-provoking works continue to inspire and educate viewers, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. His unique style and bold use of color have influenced countless artists, and his legacy as a pioneer of African-American-themed art remains strong today.
Lawrence's contributions to the art world have not gone unnoticed, and his work can be found in museums and galleries around the world. His dedication to telling the stories of African Americans through art has solidified his place as a groundbreaking artist and a symbol of resilience and creativity.