Romare Bearden the Family Etching & Aquatint

Title: The Family

This artwork by Romare Bearden epitomizes the themes that garnered him acclaim, portraying an ordinary African American family as they get ready for a meal.

Created from a collage that was transformed into several photo-etching plates, this piece stands out as one of Bearden’s most complex and ambitious prints, both in concept and execution. He incorporated photographic fragments sourced from well-known publications such as Ebony and The Saturday Evening Post.

Artist: Romare Bearden (American, Charlotte, North Carolina 1911–1988 New York)

Romare Bearden, a preeminent painter and collage artist, is celebrated for his depictions of the African American experience. Born on September 2, 1911, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and passing away in New York City on March 12, 1988, Bearden’s career was distinguished by his deep engagement with cultural history and the arts, including music, literature, and global art traditions. His innovative use of collage integrated elements from popular magazines and classical art to reflect both personal memory and broader African American narratives. His notable series, “Prevalence of Ritual,” encapsulates this blend, employing abstract shapes and symbolic imagery to evoke the customs of the rural South and urban North. Bearden’s influence extended beyond his artwork; he was a dedicated mentor and advocate for young artists and played a significant role in organizing artistic forums in Harlem. His numerous awards and a groundbreaking retrospective at the National Gallery of Art highlight his lasting impact on American art.

Date: 1975

Numbered: 84/125

Signed: Pencil

Medium: Color aquatint and photo engraving

Dimensions: Sheet: 19 1/2 in. × 25 in. (49.5 × 63.5 cm)