Despite major successes in the 1960’s, the period continued to be a difficult time for African Americans. Socially, segregation continued to bring violence and death. The black community looked for ways to maintain momentum and encourage positive change. Black self-love was the courage African Americans held onto through this period; it promoted the idea that black was beautiful. Art was one of the tools that African Americans used to preserve their identity through the 1960s. This exhibition explores artists who paved the way to happiness in the black community with their creativity. This exhibition also explores different styles of art and how each style was used to remind African Americans ─ black is beautiful.

The following pieces of art have been specifically gathered together by our team. We hope you enjoy the exhibition and realize that empowerment and the idea of self-love are often powerful tools that can keep a community united, despite overwhelming odds.

The Witch Doctor

Tar Beach

Unite

Say It Loud

Mother and Child

Urban Wall Suit

Club Couple

Works Cited