Romare Bearden (2 September 1911 - 12 March 1988) is considered one of the most important American artists of the 20th century. Born in North Carolina, he landed in New York City and studied with George Grosz. His early paintings were realistic with religious themes. Later, his works depict aspects of family culture in a semiabstract collage and Cubist style. He was also a songwriter and designed sets for the Alvin Ailey Company.