There have been many compelling documentaries highlighting visual artists: Tish Murtha. Perhaps the film medium particularly shines when displaying remarkably striking photographs. Today comes another remarkable case, from writer-director Yemi Bamiro, chronicling the impressive life's work of Kwame Brathwaite—an artist, musician and civil rights advocate who represented a distinct cultural-activist approach.
Alongside his brother Elombe, he pioneered the phrase “Black Is Beautiful” during the mid-century era by documenting the Harlem models in Harlem: youthful African American women who became the sensational template for visual appeal, moving beyond traditional grooming practices and the predominant white model of female beauty.
The Influence of a Revolutionary Slogan
This powerful statement evolved into a powerful rallying cry, an visionary concise declaration for change. Just to assert that black people possessed beauty proved to be a transformative power in culture, social movements and culture. The artist became integral to the social justice global Black struggle by photographing Muhammad Ali prior to his iconic championship fight in 1974.
He served as the primary image creator for the Jackson 5's continental journey, and later assumed the role of the house photographer for the legendary Apollo theatre, building an amazing collection of black musicians. Alongside Elombe, he emerged as the driving force behind arranging for the anti-apartheid icon to speak in New York.
Historical Recognition
His son Kwame Jr is interviewed the their mission to ensure proper recognition for his parent's achievements after he was hurtfully overlooked in the prestigious cultural museum, inaugurated by the political leader in 2016.
The feature further reveals the inexpressibly painful genesis of Brathwaite's passion for image making: the disturbing images of the young victim, the adolescent African American murder victim whose mourning family member boldly insisted on an uncovered casket so the horrific reality of racist violence would not be hidden.
Through Darkness to Hope
In this representation of tragedy, Brathwaite found a type of transformative realization that directed him toward photographs of aspiration. His images powerfully conveyed community pride and frequently not overtly political: he curated a innovative iconography of pride around which activist groups could unite.
This represents an inspiring record of artistic vision that still inspire decades later.
