Lecture on Ramir Bearden

Introduction

• Ramir Bearden: 20th-century American artist
• Focus: African-American culture and experiences
• Birth: 1911, North Carolina
• Career: Mainly in New York City

Artistic Evolution

• Early Works:
  • Realistic images
  • Religious themes
• Later Works:
  • Abstract and cubist styles
  • Mediums: Oils and watercolors
  • Known for: Photo montage compositions (torn images from magazines)

Techniques and Styles

• Wide range of techniques and styles
• Initial aspiration: Cartoonist
• Boston College's Humor magazine contributor (early 1930s)
• Education: Medical school in New York City, Bachelor's degree in science

Artistic Influences and Groups

• Lived in Harlem, joined Black Artist Group
• Influences:
  • Modern art movements such as cubism, post-impressionism, and surrealism
  • Mexican muralists like Diego Rivera
• Created paintings depicting scenes of the American South

Cultural Context

• Harlem Renaissance era
• Exposure to jazz musicians: Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday
• Influence of jazz in collages and character depictions

Notable Works

• The Block:
  • Depicts Harlem street life and row house buildings
  • Captures the vibrant life and faces of neighborhood residents
  • Reflects Bearden's experiences and those of his community in Harlem

Summary

• Bearden's work is a creative reflection of African-American life and culture through varied artistic techniques and styles, enriched by his personal experiences and historical context.