Black is Beautiful - Honoring the Passing of Kwame Brathwaite

Kwame Brathwaite’s passing was announced by his son on April 1st via instagram. It was a huge loss for the art community. Brathwaite's artistic vision and photography particularly celebrated the beauty of black women in a revolutionary way. His iconic photographs showcased black women in all their natural glory, challenging the prevailing beauty standards that often excluded or misrepresented them.

In his "Black and Proud" series, Brathwaite captured black women with their natural hair, adorned with intricate headwraps, bold accessories, and traditional African-inspired clothing. His portraits exuded confidence, strength, and pride, portraying black women as regal and majestic. Brathwaite's use of vibrant colors and bold compositions highlighted the unique features and skin tones of black women, showcasing their diversity and individuality.

Brathwaite's fashion shows, such as "Naturally '62" and "Dandy Lion," also celebrated black women's beauty in a transformative way. He featured black female models with various hair textures, from afros to braids, defying the societal norms that promoted Eurocentric hairstyles as the standard of beauty. Brathwaite's fashion shows were a platform for black women to showcase their natural beauty, challenging the idea that they needed to conform to mainstream beauty standards to be considered beautiful.

Moreover, Brathwaite's photographs often captured the joy, camaraderie, and sisterhood among black women. He depicted black women laughing, dancing, and embracing each other, showcasing their resilience, solidarity, and sense of community. Brathwaite's portrayal of black women went beyond their physical appearance, capturing their inner strength, resilience, and spirit, and presenting them as multifaceted individuals with depth and complexity.

Brathwaite's representation of black women in his art was revolutionary for its time, as it challenged the prevailing stereotypes and prejudices that often marginalized black women. His photographs and fashion shows empowered black women to embrace their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sense of self-worth. Through his art, Brathwaite not only celebrated black women's beauty but also elevated their voices and stories, amplifying their presence in the art world and beyond.

Brathwaite's contribution to the 'Black is Beautiful' movement included a profound celebration of black female beauty. His art captured the diversity, strength, and pride of black women, challenging societal norms and empowering them to embrace their natural beauty and cultural identity. Brathwaite's visionary approach to capturing black female beauty through his photography and fashion shows has left an enduring impact on the art world and serves as an inspiration for future generations.