History has seen many compelling films about visual artists: Vivian Maier. Maybe cinematic storytelling naturally comes alive when presenting remarkably striking still images. Now we have one more remarkable case, directed by creator Yemi Bamiro, exploring the extraordinary career of Kwame Brathwaite—a creative force, artist and civil rights advocate who represented a unique artistic-political vision.
Together with his brother Elombe, he pioneered the expression “Black Is Beautiful” throughout the sixties by photographing the Harlem models in Harlem: emerging Black women who became the sensational standard for visual appeal, rejecting traditional grooming practices and the established Caucasian ideal of femininity.
The Impact of a Simple Phrase
The iconic phrase evolved into a radical call to action, an visionary concise declaration for change. Simply stating that people of color possessed beauty proved to be a empowering influence in culture, politics and culture. The photographer became part of the civil rights global Black cause by documenting the sports icon leading up to his legendary Rumble in the Jungle in the seventies.
He was appointed the primary photographer for the Jackson 5's continental journey, and later became the official visual chronicler for the legendary cultural institution, creating an incredible collection of musical pioneers. Together with his brother, he emerged as the central figure behind securing the anti-apartheid icon to speak in the community.
Family Legacy
His son his namesake recounts the family's quest to secure due acknowledgment for his parent's achievements after he was hurtfully overlooked in Washington DC's National Museum of African American History and Culture, established by the political leader in this century.
The feature additionally explores the profoundly sorrowful origin of the artist's dedication to image making: the disturbing photographs of Emmett Till, the young civil rights lynching victim whose bereaved parent boldly insisted on an uncovered casket so the brutal truth of racial hatred would not be hidden.
Amidst Sorrow to Empowerment
From this image of violence, Brathwaite discovered a form of profound understanding that guided him toward images of community. His images were eloquent of community pride and frequently not overtly political: he curated a new iconography of empowerment through which political movements could unite.
The documentary stands as an captivating record of artistic vision that continues to inspire across generations.
