There have been countless compelling features about visual artists: Martin Parr. Maybe cinematic storytelling naturally comes alive when showcasing particularly vivid visual compositions. Here comes one more outstanding example, directed by writer-director Yemi Bamiro, documenting the remarkable life's work of Kwame Brathwaite—a creative force, performer and social justice champion who represented a distinct cultural-activist perspective.
In partnership with his brother Elombe, he virtually invented the phrase “Black Is Beautiful” during the sixties by capturing the Grandassa Models in Harlem: young women of color who emerged as the transformative archetype for visual appeal, moving beyond conventional beauty standards and the usual Eurocentric model of womanhood.
The Influence of Three Words
This powerful statement became a powerful call to action, an visionary concise manifesto for progress. Simply stating that African Americans radiated beauty emerged as a transformative influence in society, activism and the arts. The photographer grew into a key figure in the civil rights global Black cause by documenting Muhammad Ali before his historic Rumble in the Jungle in the seventies.
He became the primary photographer for the musical group's continental journey, and subsequently was named the resident artist for the historic Apollo theatre, building an incredible collection of African American artists. Alongside Elombe, he was the key organizer behind securing Nelson Mandela to address the public in the community.
Personal Journey
His son Kwame Jr recounts the family's mission to achieve due acknowledgment for his family heritage after he was unjustly excluded in Washington DC's Smithsonian institution, opened by Barack Obama in 2016.
The feature also recounts the profoundly sorrowful inspiration of the artist's passion for image making: the shocking images of Emmett Till, the young Black tragic figure whose bereaved parent courageously requested an public viewing so the brutal truth of bigoted brutality would not be concealed.
From Tragedy to Beauty
Through this image of tragedy, the artist found a kind of transformative realization that directed him toward photographs of beauty. His work powerfully conveyed celebratory strength and frequently subtle in messaging: he curated a innovative iconography of strength upon which social causes could gather.
This represents an exhilarating record of artistic vision that persists in resonate decades later.
