Prevalence of Ritual III 

Romare Bearden created "Prevalence of Ritual III," as an exploration of the rituals of daily life within the African American community. Bearden came of age during the Harlem Renaissance and later was part of the Black Arts Movement which deeply influenced his artistic vision. His work often reflects his personal experiences and observations of Black culture. Here, the figures are rendered with a sense of dignity and introspection. The use of varied colors and textures creates a vibrant surface, that draws us into the intimate gathering, suggesting both a shared history and a collective identity.   Bearden once said that he hoped to depict the "complexity" of African American life. His work invites us to consider how cultural practices shape individual and communal identities. Bearden underscores how the rituals of community life allow for the transmission of cultural memory and the assertion of identity in the face of systemic challenges.