In a world torn apart by divisions of race, region, religion, caste, class, gender and more, the first to strike is the colour of the skin. This has been further deepened with fashion focusing on making one look more beautiful if you are of a particular colour.  As Sikhs show up on the world stage, they take pride in their brown skin tone.  Unlike many other students from Punjab pursuing peripheral studies in Canada, a History and Politics student with a special interest in Art History -Gurleen Kaur of the University of Alberta University has delved into the arts of the Black community. This piece and the accompanying video, exclusively for The World Sikh News articulates the brief background and significance of Black History Month in the United States and Canada especially relating to the work of artist Kerry James Marshall. She also mentions why Sikh artists, writers, journalists and activists should relate to this.

As the stereotypical image of the Black communities being drug abusers, hooligans and more persists despite Black President Barrack Obama, the journey is still a challenge with the supremacy of the opposite colour still deeply entrenched in the eyes and minds of people. Yet, how the Black communities recently asserted themselves by voting for President Donald J. Trump, shows the ability of the Black communities in enforcing their social and political progress. Black writings, black art and black social campaigns for equality have contributed to this development.

A century ago, he Black History Month was launched in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, initially, celebrated as “Negro History Week” during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. In 1976, it was expanded to a month-long celebration and officially recognized by the U.S. government.

The goal of Black History Month is to recognize and celebrate the contribution of African Americans to the history and culture of the United States. Crafted to counteract the marginalization of Black history in the mainstream education system in the United States, the prime target was to highlight the achievements and struggles of Black people throughout history.

Over the years, Black History Month has had a significant impact on American society. It has helped raise awareness of the contributions of African Americans in various fields, including science, literature, politics, and the arts. The month-long celebration has also provided a platform for discussions and debate about race, equality, and social justice.

While there is still much work to be done in terms of racial equality, Black History Month has played a crucial role in promoting a more inclusive and accurate understanding of American history.

Kerry James Marshall’s Childhood and Artistic Journey

One of the glorious personalities of the Black movement was Kerry James Marshall, born on 17 October 1955, in Birmingham, Alabama, during a time of significant racial tension and segregation in the United States. His family moved to South Central Los Angeles when he was a child, seeking better opportunities. Growing up in the Watts neighbourhood, Marshall was deeply influenced by the social and cultural dynamics of the area, including the Watts Riots of 1965, which were a response to systemic racism and police brutality.

Marshall’s interest in art began at an early age. He was inspired by the illustrations in children’s books and the murals he saw in his community. He attended the Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills and developed his unique style. Marshall’s work is characterized by its focus on African American life and history, often incorporating elements of the Black experience in America. His paintings are known for their vibrant colours, intricate details, and powerful narratives that challenge traditional representations of Black people in art.

Highly respected among Black artists, Marshall is famous for his commitment to representing Black culture and history in his work. He is seen as a trailblazer who has paved the way for other Black artists to gain recognition in the art world. His work is celebrated for its authenticity and ability to convey the complexities of Black identity. Highly acclaimed by artists and critics of other communities, Marshall is recognized for his technical skill and the importance of his contributions to contemporary art. His ability to address issues of race and representation in a way that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning has earned him a place among the most influential artists of his generation.

He has had a profound impact on Black society by challenging stereotypes and providing a more nuanced representation of Black life in America. His work has been instrumental in bringing issues of race, identity, and history to the forefront of contemporary art. By depicting Black people in a variety of settings—ranging from everyday life to historical events—Marshall has helped to broaden the narrative around Black experiences and has inspired a new generation of artists to explore similar themes.

Kerry James Marshall’s work and Black History Month both serve as powerful reminders of the importance of representation and the need to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Black individuals to society.

Are brown artists and writers listening?