BHM: Spotlight on the Harlem Renaissance

DELMARVA – The Harlem Renaissance was a major turning point of self-expression in African American history.

Local artist Patrick Henry explains it best:

“In the late 1900s it was a period where African Americans, who immigrated from the south into major metropolitan areas and in this case particularly new york were able to either express the highest order of humanity through their art,” he says.

Professional artist Patrick Henry says the movement highlighted all the arts. That includes musical, visual, and performing arts. The Harlem Renaissance is also known as the New Negro Movement.  This is a heightened period of time for creative expression when many African Americans were suffering from physical and mental bondage.

“Groups of African Americans leaving the south and relocated the environment that they were in freed them up for them to act upon their creative passions and even to this day the best of what they had to offer is being celebrated,” Henry adds.

He says we have to educate ourselves. Emphasizing the fact that there are so many more available resources, Google and social media to name a few. Henry tells us through his art he tries to be purposeful and bring something to society and more artists should embrace that. Currently, he has an exhibit you can check out at the Ward Museum.