Jacob Lawrence
(1917–2000)
This section examines Jacob Lawrence’s life and influences, including artists, philosophers, and poets. Lawrence grew up surrounded by the vibrancy of the Harlem Renaissance.
Learn more about his early life and leading Harlem Renaissance thinkers, such as Alain LeRoy Locke and Charles Alston, and their impact on Lawrence's artistic style and approach to storytelling.
Lawrence's Early Years
Jacob Lawrence was born in Atlantic City but moved to Harlem, New York, when he was 13.
Find out about his early life in Harlem and how he got his start in art.Lawrence's Later Years
Jacob Lawrence was 24 years old when he created The Migration Series.
Discover how he earned critical acclaim and his later years of practicing and teaching.Growing up in Harlem
Jacob Lawrence incorporated the rhythms and ideas of the Harlem Renaissance into his artwork.
Explore Lawrence’s influences and inspirations.