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FOREWORD BY OLIVIA SALTER
It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce Fire!!, a groundbreaking quarterly devoted to showcasing the vibrant creativity of the younger Negro artists. In a world that often overlooks or marginalizes their voices, Fire!! stands as a blazing beacon of artistic brilliance and a testament to the power of self-expression.
The pages of this publication serve as a platform for emerging African-American artists to freely explore, experiment, and challenge the prevailing artistic norms of their time. Created during the cultural explosion of the Harlem Renaissance, Fire!! emerges at a crucial moment in history when the creative genius of African Americans is beginning to break free from the confines of societal restrictions.
In the early 20th century, the African-American experience was fraught with struggle and adversity. Yet within the confines of this struggle, there was an undeniable resilience and raw talent that refused to be silenced. Fire!! seeks to harness and amplify this spirit as each issue radiates with the bold, unapologetic voices of the younger Negro artists demanding recognition and respect for their contributions to the artistic landscape.
This publication is not merely a collection of art and literature; it is a testament to the unyielding spirit of a generation of African-American artists who refused to be defined by the limitations placed upon them. It boldly explores the multifaceted identities and experiences of the younger Negro artists, unearthing the complexities of their existence and offering a counter-narrative to the stereotypes and prejudices that have plagued their community.
Within these pages, readers are invited to witness a kaleidoscope of creativity. From vivid paintings and sculptures that celebrate the beauty and resilience of black culture to captivating poetry and prose that delves into the depths of human emotion Fire!! immerses its readers in a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
Let it be known that the artists showcased in Fire!! are not mere bystanders of their time but visionaries who shape the future of art. They challenge the status quo and demand that the world recognize the profound truths embedded within their work. With each stroke of the brush or each line penned, these artists engage in a powerful dialogue with the past, present, and future, unraveling the complexities of their existence and forging a path towards a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape.
As we flip through the pages of Fire!!, let us listen attentively to the voices of the younger Negro artists, for they speak not only to the struggles of their own community but to the universal human experience. In their art, we find the power to uplift, heal, and unite. We are reminded of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the kaleidoscope of cultures that shape our collective humanity.
To the creators, curators, and contributors who have poured their hearts and souls into this publication, I commend you for your bravery and unwavering commitment to your craft. By channeling your creativity into Fire!! you have ignited a spark that will continue to inspire generations to come.
May there be flames of Fire!! burning brightly forever, illuminating the boundless potential of the younger Negro artists and igniting a passion for artistic expression that knows no bounds.
Together, let us celebrate the transformative power of art, and may the embers of Fire!! burning setting ablaze a future where the voices of all artists, irrespective of race or background, are celebrated and cherished.
Olivia Salter
08/22/2023
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