There have been countless fascinating films highlighting image makers: Vivian Maier. It could be the film medium truly excels when presenting exceptionally powerful still images. Here arrives a new remarkable example, directed by creator Yemi Bamiro, chronicling the extraordinary professional journey of Kwame Brathwaite—an artist, artist and African American activist who represented a unique cultural-activist approach.
Together with his brother Elombe, he virtually invented the phrase “Black Is Beautiful” in the mid-century era by photographing the African American women in New York: youthful African American women who transformed into the sensational template for aesthetics, abandoning traditional grooming practices and the established Eurocentric model of femininity.
The Influence of a Revolutionary Slogan
Black Is Beautiful became a transformative unifying message, an brilliant three-word prose poem for transformation. Just stating that people of color possessed beauty became a transformative power in society, social movements and the arts. The artist grew into part of the social justice African diaspora cause by capturing images of the legendary boxer before his iconic championship fight in that era.
He became the official visual documentarian for the Jackson 5's African tour, and later assumed the role of the resident artist for the historic cultural institution, building an amazing portfolio of African American artists. Together with his brother, he became the driving force behind arranging for Nelson Mandela to address the public in New York.
Personal Journey
His son his namesake shares the family's quest to ensure proper recognition for his family heritage after he was unjustly ignored in the prestigious National Museum of African American History and Culture, established by the former president in this century.
The feature also recounts the inexpressibly painful origin of the photographer's passion for image making: the shocking images of Emmett Till, the adolescent Black tragic figure whose grieving mother defiantly demanded an open coffin so the violent nature of racial hatred might not be hidden.
Through Darkness to Empowerment
Through this representation of violence, Brathwaite encountered a form of anti-epiphany that guided him toward images of community. His images powerfully conveyed celebratory strength and typically nuanced in approach: he curated a innovative visual language of strength upon which activist groups could unite.
The documentary stands as an captivating chronicle of cultural impact that continues to inspire decades later.
