The Great Migration was a pivotal moment in American history, with over six million Black individuals moving to the North and West to escape the racial violence and oppression of the Jim Crow South. Artworks that explore this significant exodus often take on monumental forms, reflecting the magnitude of the journey.
In Chicago, two art exhibitions provide opportunities to delve into the themes of the Great Migration through large-scale artworks. “Regina Agu: Shore|Lines” at the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MOCP) showcases Agu’s research into the Gulf South and Chicagoland, two pivotal points in Black American migration. The exhibition features room-size photographic panoramas printed on fabric, such as “Edge, Bank, Shore,” a 94-foot-long watery horizon capturing the essence of the Little Calumet River and Lake Michigan. These immersive panoramas reveal a complex history, with layers of images highlighting the realities of the landscapes.
In contrast, “A Movement in Every Direction: Legacies of the Great Migration” at the Chicago Cultural Center displays a traveling group exhibit that celebrates the impact of the Great Migration on contemporary art. Artists like Carrie Mae Weems, Mark Bradford, and Akea Brionne contribute to this monumental show, with artworks that reflect their personal connections to the migration. One standout piece is Robert Pruitt’s “A Song for Travelers,” a 20-foot-long imaginary family portrait that spans generations, inviting viewers to reflect on their own family histories.
Both exhibitions offer a deep dive into the complexities of the Great Migration, shedding light on the untold stories and experiences of Black individuals during this transformative period in American history. As the Trump administration threatens DEI programs and African-American history, these exhibitions serve as vital reminders of the importance of preserving and sharing these narratives. By engaging with these artworks, we can continue to learn, celebrate, and honor the legacies of the Great Migration.
“Regina Agu: Shore|Lines” is on view at the MOCP until May 17, while “A Movement in Every Direction: Legacies of the Great Migration” can be experienced at the Chicago Cultural Center until April 27. These exhibitions provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the Great Migration through the lens of contemporary art.
