The Harlem Renaissance: A Revolution of Words, Art, and Activism

Speaker: Kathy Trusty

Suitable for Schools · Grades 4–12

Culture & Identity • Art & Music Studies • Literature & Language • History

The Harlem Renaissance was a period of rich African American artistic and cultural activity. This program explores the Harlem Renaissance and its significance in American history and Black culture. It discusses key figures and their contributions to art, literature, music and theater, along with the rise of Black pride, self-expression, and artistic freedom. 

For schools, versions of this presentation for students are available by topic and include activities.  

Topics  

• The New Negro Movement, Black Pride, Artistic Freedom  

• Literary Contributors: Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Claude McKay, Alice Dunbar Nelson,   

• Visual Artists: Aaron Douglas, Augusta Savage  

• Music: Billie Holiday, Bessie Smith, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong  

• Performing Arts: Josephine Baker, Paul Robeson  

• Photography of James Van Der Zee  

Activities  

• Analyze a poem. What does the writer mean? What are they feeling?  

• Interpret photographs. What is the photo telling you about life in Harlem during the Renaissance?  

• What Do You See? Interpret Aaron Douglas’ paintings “Aspects of a Negro Life.”  

• Billie Holiday, the Rapper: Turn her song lyrics into a Rap.