02/13/2026
"I paint the things I have experienced," Jacob Lawrence stated.
As a young artist living in Harlem, Jacob Lawrence applied his bold, unique style to the creation of narrative cycles devoted to African American history, leaders, and life.
In "The Wedding," Lawrence depicted both the solemnity and the joy of a marriage ceremony and the coming together of families. Positioning the figures with their backs to the viewer, Lawrence’s composition invites us to participate in the couple’s major life event. Although the preacher’s face is only partially defined, he appears to look down with great seriousness as the two contemplate their vows. The large, colorful urns overflowing with flowers signify happiness and may also represent the future prosperity of this union.
See "The Wedding" by Jacob Lawrence on view in Gallery 263. https://bit.ly/4tnjCQE
Image:
Jacob Lawrence. "The Wedding," 1948. Restricted gift of Mary P. Hines in memory of her mother, Frances W. Pick. © 2016 The Jacob and Gwendolyn Lawrence Foundation, Seattle / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.