We have witnessed many engaging features about image makers: Tish Murtha. Perhaps the film medium truly excels when showcasing remarkably striking visual compositions. Here comes another outstanding example, from creator Yemi Bamiro, documenting the impressive career of Kwame Brathwaite—a creative force, musician and African American activist who represented a distinct cultural-activist vision.
Together with his brother Elombe, he effectively created the expression “Black Is Beautiful” throughout the 1960s by documenting the Grandassa Models in the cultural epicenter: emerging African American women who emerged as the sensational standard for aesthetics, moving beyond traditional cosmetic products and the established white standard of womanhood.
The Power of Three Words
The iconic phrase became a transformative call to action, an inspired three-word manifesto for progress. Simply stating that people of color radiated beauty emerged as a liberating influence in society, activism and the arts. The artist became a key figure in the Black power African diaspora movement by documenting the legendary boxer prior to his legendary Rumble in the Jungle in 1974.
He became the exclusive image creator for the band's continental journey, and later assumed the role of the resident artist for the iconic cultural institution, creating an amazing portfolio of African American artists. In collaboration with his brother, he was the central figure behind securing the anti-apartheid icon to speak in Harlem.
Personal Journey
Brathwaite's son Kwame Jr recounts the personal mission to secure appropriate credit for his father's legacy after he was hurtfully overlooked in the nation's capital's Smithsonian institution, inaugurated by the former president in 2016.
The film further reveals the deeply tragic origin of the artist's passion for photography: the disturbing photographs of the lynching martyr, the adolescent African American murder victim whose mourning family member courageously requested an open coffin so the violent nature of bigoted brutality could not be hidden.
Amidst Sorrow to Beauty
In this image of tragedy, Brathwaite encountered a kind of transformative realization that directed him toward images of community. His images powerfully conveyed community pride and often not overtly political: he curated a new visual language of empowerment upon which political movements could unite.
This represents an inspiring chronicle of cultural impact that still inspire across generations.
