There have been countless compelling features about visual artists: Vivian Maier. Maybe cinematic storytelling naturally comes alive when showcasing remarkably striking photographs. Now comes a new remarkable case, from writer-director Yemi Bamiro, documenting the impressive career of Kwame Brathwaite—a photographer, musician and civil rights advocate who exemplified a unique artistic-political vision.
Alongside his family member Elombe, he pioneered the phrase “Black Is Beautiful” throughout the 1960s by capturing the Grandassa Models in Harlem: youthful women of color who emerged as the groundbreaking standard for visual appeal, rejecting traditional grooming practices and the established Caucasian standard of womanhood.
The Impact of Three Words
This powerful statement evolved into a radical call to action, an brilliant concise manifesto for transformation. Simply stating that African Americans radiated beauty emerged as a empowering influence in society, politics and the arts. The photographer grew into integral to the Black power global Black cause by photographing Muhammad Ali leading up to his legendary championship fight in 1974.
He was appointed the primary image creator for the musical group's continental journey, and later became the resident artist for the legendary Apollo theatre, assembling an extraordinary portfolio of African American artists. Alongside Elombe, he became the key organizer behind arranging for Nelson Mandela to appear in the community.
Family Legacy
Brathwaite's son his namesake recounts the their quest to ensure due acknowledgment for his parent's achievements after he was unjustly ignored in the prestigious cultural museum, inaugurated by the political leader in 2016.
The film additionally explores the inexpressibly painful genesis of Brathwaite's dedication to visual storytelling: the horrendous images of the lynching martyr, the young Black tragic figure whose grieving mother boldly requested an public viewing so the horrific reality of racist violence would not be concealed.
Amidst Sorrow to Beauty
In this vision of violence, the visionary encountered a form of transformative realization that directed him toward images of aspiration. His photographs were eloquent of empowering beauty and typically nuanced in approach: he established a new iconography of empowerment upon which activist groups could mobilize.
The documentary stands as an inspiring record of cultural impact that persists in resonate through the years.
