We have witnessed many engaging documentaries focusing on visual artists: Vivian Maier. Perhaps cinematic storytelling particularly shines when showcasing remarkably striking visual compositions. Today arrives a new exceptional case, directed by filmmaker Yemi Bamiro, exploring the extraordinary professional journey of Kwame Brathwaite—an artist, musician and social justice champion who exemplified a unique politico-aesthetic perspective.
Alongside his family member Elombe, he pioneered the phrase “Black Is Beautiful” in the mid-century era by photographing the Harlem models in the cultural epicenter: youthful women of color who became the sensational standard for visual appeal, rejecting conventional cosmetic products and the predominant Eurocentric standard of femininity.
The Influence of Three Words
This powerful statement evolved into a transformative call to action, an visionary three-word manifesto for change. Merely stating that African Americans were beautiful emerged as a liberating force in society, social movements and the arts. The photographer became integral to the civil rights global Black struggle by capturing images of Muhammad Ali prior to his iconic Rumble in the Jungle in the seventies.
He was appointed the primary visual documentarian for the musical group's international performances, and subsequently was named the official visual chronicler for the historic Apollo theatre, creating an amazing collection of African American artists. In collaboration with Elombe, he became the key organizer behind bringing Nelson Mandela to appear in Harlem.
Personal Journey
His son Kwame Jr is interviewed the family's campaign to ensure proper recognition for his father's legacy after he was unjustly excluded in the prestigious cultural museum, inaugurated by the former president in 2016.
The film further reveals the profoundly sorrowful inspiration of Brathwaite's passion for visual storytelling: the horrendous photographs of the young victim, the young civil rights tragic figure whose mourning family member courageously requested an public viewing so the horrific reality of racial hatred would not be hidden.
Amidst Sorrow to Hope
Through this representation of violence, Brathwaite found a type of profound understanding that directed him toward images of community. His images were eloquent of celebratory strength and typically subtle in messaging: he developed a fresh visual language of empowerment upon which social causes could unite.
It is an inspiring chronicle of artistic vision that persists in empower through the years.
