1. Romare Bearden’s Influence on August Wilson
Fences
Romare Bearden’s Influence on August Wilson

2. - August Wilson on Romare Bearden
Influence for Fences
Much of August Wilson’s writing was influenced by the paintings of visual artist Romare Bearden.
“What I saw was black life presented on its own terms, on a grand and epic scale, with all its richness and fullness. It was the art of a large and generous spirit that defined not only the character of black American life, but also its conscience.”
- August Wilson on Romare Bearden

3. Romare Bearden (September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988) Bearden’s Art
Romare Bearden is recognized as one of the most creative and original artists and humanists of the 20th century.
He was a prolific painter and sculptor as well as a scenic and costume designer for theater and ballet.
In addition to his art, Bearden was also a writer and social activist.
Bearden’s Art
Beaden worked with many types of media including cartoons, oils, and collages.
Bearden’s multimedia collages focus on the personal experiences, daily life, and cultural heritage of African-Americans.
Bearden endeavored to express the humanity he felt was lacking in the world after his experience in the US Army during World War II on the European front.

7. This is the specific image that influenced Fences
This is the specific image that influenced Fences. August Wilson has stated that the idea for Fences began with an image in his mind of a father holding a baby on the front porch (Troy holding his baby daughter after she is born and her mother dies during childbirth).

8. Works Cited
“August Wilson's Influences.” Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles Times,
Timmons, Greg. “Romare Bearden.” Biography.com, A&E Networks Television, 13
Feb. 2018,