This year, Black History Month introduces a compelling theme that explores the diverse artistic contributions of African Americans and highlights the fascinating intersection of Black arts and technology.
The Origins of Black History Month
The origins of Black History Month can be attributed to the efforts of Carter G. Woodson, a historian trained at Harvard, who established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) and introduced Negro History Week in 1925. Woodson aimed to raise awareness of the invaluable contributions of African Americans to civilization, and the event was first commemorated during a week in February 1926. Woodson deliberately selected February for this celebration to coincide with the birthdays of two significant figures in Black history – Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
The response to this initiative was overwhelmingly positive. Black history clubs began to emerge, educators sought materials to educate their students, and progressive members of the white community offered support for this noble cause. By the time of Woodson’s passing in 1950, Negro History Week had firmly established itself as a central element of African-American life. Following the Black Awakening in the 1960s and the Civil Rights movement, the commemoration was expanded to a month in 1976. It was during that year, fifty years after the inauguration of the first celebration, that the association – now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) – hosted its inaugural Black History Month.
African American Contributions to the Arts
The thematic focus of Black History Month 2024, ‘African American and the Arts’, illuminates the numerous artistic and cultural movements that have been spearheaded by individuals of African descent. The impacts of these movements have surpassed geographical boundaries and left an enduring mark on global trends. Influential movements include the New Negro, Black Arts, Black Renaissance, hip-hop, and Afrofuturism.
With prominent figures such as DJ Kool Herc and Coke La Rock at the forefront, hip-hop emerged as a profound medium that addressed crucial socio-political issues such as racial violence and economic disparity. Notably, hip-hop made innovative use of technological tools such as turntables, synthesizers, and drum machines. Conversely, Afrofuturism exemplifies cultural and artistic expressions that envision a future liberated from oppressive structures. Instances of Afrofuturism can be observed in the works of visionaries such as Sun Ra, Janelle Monáe, Octavia Butler, and the groundbreaking Marvel film, Black Panther.
The Intersection of Art and Technology
In contemporary times, the realms of art and technology are seamlessly converging, as Black artists embrace digital technology as the canvas for their creative expressions. Innovations such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, AI, and blockchain are driving a wave of transformative change, allowing Black artists to revolutionize artistic practices. An exemplary case would be Lewis Long’s Long Gallery in Harlem, which offers immersive 3D virtual walkthroughs, enabling art enthusiasts to access and appreciate art from the comfort of their homes across the globe. Furthermore, Dedren Snead has spearheaded a studio that amalgamates art, culture, gaming, and technology, with the aim of establishing a “Black Pixar”. This endeavour seeks to revitalize tourist attractions while promoting art, culture, and technological advancements within urban landscapes.
This Black History Month, we extend a cordial invitation to everyone to join us in celebrating the integral connections between Black arts and technology as we collectively honor the artistic expressions, resilience, and innovation of the African American community.
(Image credit: Veryl Oakland)
+ There are no comments
Add yours