The Soul of a Nation Reader

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This comprehensive compendium explores the dynamic discourse surrounding Black identity, activism, and social responsibility during the era of Malcolm X and the Black Panthers, inspired by a landmark traveling exhibition. The question of what constitutes "Black art" was fervently debated from 1960 to 1980 by artists, curators, and critics amidst significant social and political upheaval in America. Rather than a singular definition, diverse interpretations emerged, reflecting the complexities of the time. Through newspapers, magazines, catalogs, and public discussions, a vibrant dialogue unfolded regarding the political engagement of Black artists, their target audiences, exhibition spaces, curatorial practices, and the existence of a distinct category called "Black art." This anthology, connected to the exhibition Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power, highlights the vital contributions of Black artists over two decades. It features over 200 texts from artists, critics, and curators who shaped the art scene, including rare and out-of-print writings, as well as previously unpublished works. Edited by Mark Godfrey and Allie Biswas, the collection is exhaustively researched and includes a substantial introduction by Godfrey.