Paris Noir: The African American Presence in Paris

Catalog description

This seminar analyzes the experience of African American artists and intellectuals in Paris, from the late 19th century until today. Students will explore the conditions that precipitated the migration of African American artists to France and analyze the cultural impact they had on Paris, and of Paris on their art. We will also examine how African American expatriates reconciled their newfound status with that of migrants from France's former colonies in Africa and the Caribbean. Through readings, films, and visits to museums, monuments and other cultural sites, we will explore the indelible mark African American artists left on their adopted city, and on global visual, literary and intellectual culture. This course will be offered in January-Term 2026. This course will be taught at NYU Paris and will count as an Away J-Term course.