February is Black History Month which is a time to celebrate the rich contributions of Black artists, activists, and culture shapers. The following tips for youth will help engage with visual arts while honoring Black history.
Discover Black artists: Research influential Black artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Faith Ringgold, Jacob Lawrence, and Alma Thomas. Explore their stories, styles, and messages. You may also wish to explore Illinois Art Education Association’s BIPOC Creatives Artist Resource which has over 1000 artists categorized by media.
Visit museums and galleries: Many museums showcase exhibits highlighting Black artists. One of the nation’s oldest African American art centers in the United States is in Illinois! The South Side Community Art Center (https://sscartcenter.org/) is a Chicago Historical Landmark whose mission is to conserve, preserve, and promote the legacy and future of Black art and artists while educating the community on the value of art and culture. Explore virtual galleries online if you can’t visit a museum or gallery in person.
Read and watch: Check out books, documentaries, and online videos about Black art movements like the Harlem Renaissance or Afrofuturism.
Experiment with colors and patterns: Many Black artists use bold colors, geometric patterns, and symbolism. Try incorporating these elements into a piece of your artwork.
Use art for social change: Art has the power to spread messages about equality and justice. Consider creating posters, murals, or digital art that promote positive change.
Ask questions: Talk to elders, teachers, or local artists about their experiences and knowledge. Learning from others can deepen your artistic and historical appreciation
Keep exploring: Black history is not just for February! Continue to celebrate, learn, and create all year long.
Art is a powerful way to honor history, uplift voices, and share stories. Use your creativity to celebrate Black history in a way that is meaningful to you.
About the author: Danielle Gapinski is a 4-H Youth Development Specialist in Creative and Cultural Arts. She provides leadership to the 4-H youth development program focusing on 4-H clubs, 4-H groups, and youth education initiatives. Danielle provides researched based educational programs geared towards art creation and performance, art careers, intersections of art and culture, art as a tool for wellness, advocacy, and education, and more.