Jacob Lawrence was an influential African American painter known for his vivid and dynamic storytelling through art. Born in 1917 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, he moved to Harlem, New York, where he became a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance. His work often depicted the struggles and triumphs of the African American experience, using bold colors and geometric shapes. Lawrence is best known for his series of paintings, such as The Migration Series, which illustrates the migration of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers in the North. His art not only reflects historical events but also emphasizes themes of community, resilience, and identity.