Romare Bearden: A Life in Collage

ROMARE BEARDEN: A Life in Collage is an exciting new documentary project about an iconic artist. Considered one of the most influential American artists of the 20th century, Romare Bearden, through his art, depicts African American culture and experience in creative and thought-provoking ways. Romare Howard Bearden was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 2, 1911. His family migrated to Harlem, and their home became a cultural gathering spot for artists. Bearden's life and art are marked by exceptional talent, encompassing a broad range of pursuits, including music, performing arts, history, literature, and visual arts.

ROMARE BEARDEN: A Life in Collage isn't a film; it's a living collage—a vibrant tapestry woven from Romare Bearden's life and genius. We'll cut through time, juxtaposing Bearden's journey as an athlete, artist, and activist with the explosive impact of his work. In addition to the exclusive archive of Bearden at work, we have never before seen footage of his conversations with James Baldwin, Alvin Ailey, and his wife, Nanette. The film will deconstruct and reconstruct the artist's legacy, mirroring his signature technique and his extraordinary storytelling skills, underscoring the activism that ignited his soul. Bearden, who declined Major League Baseball's invitation to play ball if he passed as a white man, singularly forged a new way to tell the African American experience in art. In a time when African American history faces erasure, Bearden's work continues to tell the story of Black people in America. He captured the essence of the Black experience, and the visibility and the message are more crucial than ever.

Director| Deborah Riley Draper

Producer| Jarobi Moorhead

Executive Producers | Jocelyn Moore and Robin Lyon