Harlem Renaissance and the Tropics

Date: Sunday, June 23, 2024
Time: 11 am–2 pm
Location: The Wolfsonian–FIU @ 1001 Washington Avenue

Explore the cultural reach of the Caribbean in the Harlem Renaissance during a day of talks and conversation inspired by the Wolfsonian’s Silhouettes exhibition. Art historian Samantha Noël kick-things-off with a keynote presentation about how American artists like Aaron Douglas and Josephine Baker used “tropical aesthetics” to shape the development of Black modernity. Following the talk, enjoy a reception and a panel discussion with FIU faculty that will draw connections between the broader cultural movement, the tropics, and featured works in the show, offering fresh perspectives and insights into this transformative time.

Panelists

Alexandra Cornelius, History and Women’s Studies Department
Heather Russell, English Department
Chantalle Verna, History Department
Shawn Christian, English Department (Moderator)

Schedule

11:00am–12:00pm | Talk by Dr. Samantha Noël
12:00pm–01:00pm | Exhibition Viewing and Reception
01:00pm–02:00pm | FIU Faculty Panel