We have witnessed many engaging films about image makers: Martin Parr. Maybe the film medium particularly shines when displaying remarkably striking still images. Now we have another outstanding case, from writer-director Yemi Bamiro, documenting the remarkable life's work of Kwame Brathwaite—a photographer, performer and African American activist who exemplified a distinct artistic-political vision.
In partnership with his family member Elombe, he pioneered the slogan “Black Is Beautiful” in the 1960s by photographing the Harlem models in Harlem: young African American women who became the sensational template for visual appeal, moving beyond typical cosmetic products and the predominant white ideal of female beauty.
The Influence of a Revolutionary Slogan
Black Is Beautiful transformed into a radical rallying cry, an inspired three-word declaration for transformation. Just stating that people of color were beautiful proved to be a transformative force in culture, activism and culture. The photographer grew into part of the social justice African diaspora struggle by capturing images of Muhammad Ali before his legendary Rumble in the Jungle in that era.
He became the primary visual documentarian for the musical group's international performances, and subsequently became the resident artist for the historic Harlem venue, building an extraordinary archive of black musicians. Together with his sibling, he emerged as the key organizer behind bringing the South African leader to address the public in Harlem.
Family Legacy
His son the younger Brathwaite is interviewed the personal mission to secure due acknowledgment for his family heritage after he was unjustly excluded in the prestigious National Museum of African American History and Culture, inaugurated by the former president in recent years.
The film further reveals the inexpressibly painful inspiration of the artist's dedication to visual storytelling: the horrendous images of Emmett Till, the adolescent civil rights lynching victim whose grieving mother boldly requested an open coffin so the horrific reality of racial hatred would not be covered up.
Through Darkness to Beauty
In this vision of violence, Brathwaite discovered a type of transformative realization that guided him toward visual representations of aspiration. His images powerfully conveyed community pride and frequently not overtly political: he established a innovative iconography of empowerment around which social causes could unite.
This represents an inspiring testament of creative genius that persists in inspire across generations.
