The Black Aesthetic

The Black Aesthetic, edited by Addison Gayle Jr., is a foundational text of the Black Arts Movement, examining the cultural, political, and artistic dimensions of Black expression in literature, music, visual arts, and performance. The book features essays by prominent Black intellectuals, artists, and activists who argue for a distinct Black aesthetic that challenges Eurocentric artistic standards and celebrates African American identity and heritage. A seminal work in African American cultural criticism, this volume continues to influence discussions on race, art, and self-determination.