12 JULY – 22 OCTOBER 2017
Free entry for Members
Soul of a Nation shines a bright light on the vital contribution of Black artists to a dramatic period in American art and history
TATE MODERN
Bankside
London SE1 9TG
Plan your visit
DATES
12 July – 22 October 2017
The show opens in 1963 at the height of the Civil Rights movement and its dreams of integration. In its wake emerged more militant calls for Black Power: a rallying cry for African American pride, autonomy and solidarity, drawing inspiration from newly independent African nations.
Artists responded to these times by provoking, confronting, and confounding expectations. Their momentum makes for an electrifying visual journey. Vibrant paintings, powerful murals, collage, photography, revolutionary clothing designs and sculptures made with Black hair, melted records, and tights – the variety of artworks reflects the many viewpoints of artists and collectives at work during these explosive times.
Some engage with legendary figures from the period, with paintings in homage to political leaders Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Angela Davis, musician John Coltrane and sporting hero Jack Johnson. Muhammad Ali appears in Andy Warhol’s famous painting.
This landmark exhibition is a rare opportunity to see era-defining artworks that changed the face of art in America.
Stay in the know
Be among the first to hear about all the latest Tate exhibitions, events, courses, and news Sign up to Tate emails
