Modernism and the New Negro Renaissance(see my Introduction to the Harlem Renaissance) a 1. The relationship between the two is complex. a 2. They both share the important motif of alienation 3. However, american modernism is inspired by the European avant-garde art, the renaissance represents the unique and distinct experience of black Americans◼ Modernism and the New Negro Renaissance (see my Introduction to the Harlem Renaissance) ◼ 1. The relationship between the two is complex. ◼ 2. They both share the important motif of alienation. ◼ 3. However, American modernism is inspired by the European avant-garde art; the Renaissance represents the unique and distinct experience of black Americans