Palmer Hayden

"The Janitor Who Paints"

Palmer Hayden was a painter in the early 1900s and during the Harlem Renaissance. He painted with a more realistic style, rather than the new abstract ideas that were being modernized. He was born in Virginia and later lived in Harlem. He spent some time away experiences new venues and lifestyles but many Harlem artist carry the Harlem Renaissance style in their work.
He painted mostly oil on canvas, just like this piece, "The Janitor Who Paints" This painting is an example of African American struggles but shows this janitors ambitions and hobbies. He might just be a janitor trying to support his wife, child and cat in their small home but he also paints. Additionally, the look on his wife's face seems to be happy and that she is alright with his low paying job and his contentment with painting. They are happy because they're functioning as a part of society and as a family.
The painting, to me, is fascinating because it's subtle tone and somewhat realistic features but still noticeably abstract in a way. I like all the detail; the cat's fur, the pipes, their expressions, the clock and textures.










http://www.pbs.org/wnet/aaworld/arts/hayden.html

Romare Bearden the Artist

"Bluer than Blue"

     Romare Bearden experimented with fabrics, collages, and jigsaw puzzle styles or artwork. He was persistent because he had been influenced by all kinds of Harlem artist, preforming and visual, which can be seen through his art. His style was modern and fresh. It was a new perspective on expression.

     His new style was accepted in Harlem, and recognized as abstract although by using other materials he supported his ideas of lively and pride in his work. By painting musicians, artist and "night life," mostly based from Harlem, he shows pride in his own race, supporting the theme of pride. He also identifies himself to be part of Harlem and be part of the African-American movement approaching his time. 

     He absorbed many styles he was exposed to during his time away from Harlem studying art. He did not prioritize racism, especially coming from Harlem, where he learned to express himself. He was also encouraged by his parents who were both college educated and persistent.

     I chose this piece because I love the style and the precise outline. The blue enhances the subtle and chill mood the musician presents. The abstract style within the musician, to me, resembles the sounds and tone the saxophone portrays, bright and lively.

     

http://www.dropbears.com/a/art/biography/Romare_Bearden.html