Paris in Black: Internationalism and the Black Renaissance

Be transported to the City of Light, where figures like Henry Ossawa Tanner, Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes, Richard Wright, and James Baldwin lived and created in defiance of American racism.

With over 100 objects—including masterpiece paintings and sculptures from The DuSable’s permanent collection, archival photographs, letters, fashion, and multimedia elements—Paris in Black tells a global story of Black resilience and creativity. The exhibition begins with the origins of Black international pursuits in the late 1800s and follows a journey through the decades, culminating with Black fashion in Paris in the 1990s.

Visitors will encounter the stories of iconic figures such as Josephine Baker, whose electrifying performances and social activism influenced the Jazz Age and Civil Rights Movement; Archibald Motley, whose vivid canvases celebrated Black life; and James Baldwin, whose literary voice challenged notions of identity and belonging.

“Paris in Black explores how transatlantic exchange fueled not only personal transformation but also collective cultural revolution—laying the foundation for movements like Chicago’s own Black Renaissance,” said Danny Dunson, Director of Curatorial Services and Arts Education at The DuSable.

At the heart of the exhibition stands a re-creation of the Arc de Triomphe, reimagined as a symbolic gateway for Black creativity and resilience. Through immersive design and historical reflection, the installation invites visitors to explore Paris as both a physical and imaginative space where Black identity, creativity, and endurance continue to inspire new generations.

Paris in Black will also be featured on the Bloomberg Connects app, extending the exhibition experience beyond the museum with exclusive curatorial commentary, archival materials, and multimedia features.