Bearden's exhibition of the Blues featured 20 collages, including this one and "Wrapping It Up at the Lafayette." The Savoy Ballroom and Lafayette Theater were premier sites for hearing the swinging sounds of musicians such as Chick Webb and Duke Ellington. The swift movements of the dancers and the bright costumes of the performers help reveal the attraction of these Harlem venues.

Collage of various papers with paint, ink and graphite on fiberboard
From the Collection of Raymond J. McGuire
© Romare Bearden Foundation/Licensed by VAGA, New York, N.Y.

Source: National Gallery of Art, exhibition wall text