Gettin Religion

"Gettin Religion" by Archibald John Motley, Jr. is a vibrant example of genre painting that captures a lively religious gathering within the African-American community in Chicago. Painted on canvas with oil paints, the artwork reflects Motley’s mastery of Art deco-influenced style, characterized by bold lines and dynamic compositions. As a key figure in the Chicago Black Renaissance, Motley’s work often highlights the cultural vitality and social expression of African Americans during the early 20th century, blending cultural themes with his distinctive, colorful palette in a way that resonates with the broader Harlem Renaissance movement.