Kwame Brathwaite, an incredible pioneer in the “Black is Beautiful” movement, passed away on April 1 at the age of 85. His captivating work has recently gained renewed attention. He was born in 1938 in New York City and developed a passion for photography early on, inspired by impactful moments. One of which was his encounter with a photo of Emmett Till, and another was observing a photographer working without flash in a dark jazz club, sparking his creative vision.
Brathwaite started using a Hasselblad medium-format camera and mastered working with limited light to enhance his storytelling through photography. With a unique darkroom technique, he created luminous images that highlighted the beauty of Black skin. He captured iconic jazz figures like Miles Davis and John Coltrane during the 1950s and 1960s.
In the early 1960s, he, along with AJASS, challenged conventional beauty standards by showcasing the Grandassa Models, celebrating Black beauty. This push against Eurocentric ideals culminated in events like the “Naturally ’62” fashion show, featuring these remarkable models. Brathwaite’s dedication to highlighting the beauty of the Black community continued through the years, evolving to include a diverse range of musical icons.
Brathwaite’s work exuded the essence of “Black is Beautiful” philosophy throughout his life. He maintained this powerful narrative, capturing numerous legendary performers and celebrities. His unique visual perspective has left an indelible mark on the world of photography.
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