Kwame Brathwaite: Black Is Beautiful

Kwame Brathwaite's photography from the 1960s "Black Is Beautiful" movement is featured in a new monograph, showcasing his contribution to the second Harlem Renaissance. The book explores his life and work, including the founding of the African Jazz Arts Society and Studios (AJASS) and the Grandassa Models.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 144 pages
\n Publication date: 02 May 2019
\n Publisher: Aperture
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In the vibrant and transformative era of the 1960s, a remarkable movement emerged known as "Black Is Beautiful." It was a powerful declaration that celebrated the beauty and richness of black culture, challenging the dominant white beauty standards of the time. At the forefront of this movement was Kwame Brathwaite, a visionary photographer whose images captured the essence of this cultural renaissance.

Brathwaite's journey as a photographer began in the late 1950s, fueled by his deep admiration for activist and black nationalist Marcus Garvey. Inspired by Garvey's writings, Brathwaite and his older brother, Elombe Brath, embarked on a mission to create a platform that would showcase the talents and achievements of black artists and intellectuals.

In 1962, they founded the African Jazz Arts Society and Studios (AJASS), a collective that brought together a diverse group of artists, playwrights, designers, and dancers. AJASS was a hub of creativity and innovation, where artists could express themselves freely and challenge the status quo. At the same time, Brathwaite and Elombe Brath also established the Grandassa Models, a modeling agency that aimed to break down the barriers of white beauty standards and promote the unique beauty of black women.

Through his photography, Brathwaite captured the essence of the "Black Is Beautiful" movement. His stunning studio portraits of the Grandassa Models showcased their grace, elegance, and confidence, challenging the notion that black women were only worthy of being objectified. Behind-the-scenes images of Harlems artistic community, including legends such as Max Roach, Abbey Lincoln, and Miles Davis, added depth and richness to the narrative.

This monograph, the first ever dedicated to Brathwaite's remarkable career, offers a comprehensive exploration of his life and work. It sheds light on his artistic influences, his political activism, and his unwavering commitment to promoting black culture and identity. Brathwaite's photographs serve as a testament to the power of visual storytelling, capturing the beauty and resilience of the black community during a period of immense social and cultural change.

In conclusion, Kwame Brathwaite's photography played a crucial role in popularizing the "Black Is Beautiful" movement of the 1960s. Through his images, he celebrated the beauty and diversity of black culture, challenging the dominant white beauty standards and promoting a sense of pride and self-love among the black community. His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and activists worldwide, reminding us of the importance of celebrating our unique identities and embracing our diversity.

\n Weight: 968g\n
Dimension: 273 x 222 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781597114431\n \n