Harlan Jackson

“But happily there is also a black renaissance finally under way…an attempt is being made to revive an ethnic culture that once existed. And that’s what I have been trying to do these last 30 years. Incorporate black African designs and figures in the abstract expressionism of this culture.” – Harlan Jackson, 1975

Harlan Jackson’s style blends elements of Cubism and Abstract Expressionism with African imagery. Jackson initially became interested in African history and culture while hearing stories about the continent from traveling missionaries at his church. While serving in the U.S Navy during World War II, he visited the Art Institute of Chicago and believed it to be an experience that cemented his passion to study art. In 1948, Jackson traveled to Haiti whose art and culture inspired Jackson’s incorporation of mask imagery in his art.

 

Title African Series Phoenix
Artist Harlan Jackson (1918 – 1993)
Date n.d.
Medium acrylic on canvas
Dimensions Image size: 72 x 48 inches; Framed: 73 ¾ x 48 ½ inches
Accession Number  H2006.01

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