Join us each month to explore and appreciate different artists or artistic movements with Jane Oneail. This month, learn about how painter Jacob Lawrence became not just a chronicler of American history, but a revolutionary force who expanded the very definition of what American art could be and whose stories it could tell.

Registration is required; register via Zoom by clicking here.

This program is presented in conjunction with the public libraries of Chelmsford, Ashland, Groton, and Tewksbury and is funded in part by the Friends of the Amesbury Public Library.

February's topic: Jacob Lawrence's bold, angular compositions and vibrant tempera colors transformed American art by giving visual form to the African American experience with unprecedented power and dignity, from his groundbreaking Migration Series to his dynamic depictions of Harlem life. His distinctive style—marked by flattened figures, rhythmic patterns, and jewel-like hues—created a uniquely American visual language that captured both the struggle and resilience of Black communities during the Great Migration and beyond.

Image: Jacob Lawrence. Self-Portrait, 1977. National Academy of Design.

About the Presenter: Jane Oneail (pronounced OH-neel) is the founder of Culturally Curious, a company that curates and presents art appreciation programs for audiences worldwide. Jane holds a master’s in Art History from Boston University and a master’s in Education from Harvard University. Born and raised in NH, she has worked at some of the state's most esteemed cultural institutions, including the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, where she served as Executive Director, and the Currier Museum of Art, where she held the role of Senior Educator. Jane has also taught at the college level for more than a decade, most recently at Southern New Hampshire University. For more information visit the Culturally Curious website.

QUESTIONS ABOUT REGISTRATION? Contact the Reference Desk, 978-388-8148, option 2 / reference@amesburylibrary.org

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROGRAM? Contact Stephanie Smith, ssmith@amesburylibrary.org, 978-388-8148 x607

FUNDING CREDIT: Thank you to the Friends of the Amesbury Public Library for funding this series!

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