Aaron Douglas
Born May 26, 1899
Topeka, Kansas
Died February 22, 1979
Nashville, Tennessee
American painter, illustrator, and educator
Aaron Douglas's distinctive artistic style brought the Harlem Renaissance to life on magazine covers, book jackets, and murals.
One of the most notable figures in African American art, Aaron Douglas was especially active during the Harlem Renaissance, and he is often referred to as the period's "official artist." His distinctive style of geometric symbolism (featuring flat silhouettes of human figures, muted colors, and images that are symbolic, not realistic) may be seen on many magazine covers, book illustrations and dustcovers, and advertisements from the Harlem Renaissance. Douglas also painted some impressive murals (large-scale paintings, often mounted in public places) that display his unique blend of African and modernist techniques and his interest in including elements of African American history, religion, myth, and social issues in his works. Before Douglas, no African American artist had created works so unique in style and so affirming of black identity and experience.
A Determined and Talented Young Artist
Douglas was born into a relatively large, proud, politically active African American community in Topeka, Kansas. His family did not have much money (his father was a baker).
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