There have been countless fascinating documentaries focusing on image makers: Tish Murtha. Perhaps cinematic storytelling naturally comes alive when presenting remarkably striking photographs. Today we have a new remarkable example, by filmmaker Yemi Bamiro, exploring the extraordinary professional journey of Kwame Brathwaite—a photographer, performer and social justice champion who embodied a unique politico-aesthetic vision.
Alongside his brother Elombe, he effectively created the slogan “Black Is Beautiful” throughout the sixties by photographing the African American women in Harlem: emerging women of color who emerged as the groundbreaking archetype for aesthetics, moving beyond conventional grooming practices and the usual white standard of femininity.
The Impact of a Simple Phrase
This powerful statement evolved into a radical rallying cry, an inspired memorable declaration for transformation. Just to assert that black people radiated beauty proved to be a transformative force in culture, politics and creative expression. The photographer emerged as a key figure in the civil rights pan-Africanist movement by capturing images of Muhammad Ali prior to his legendary Rumble in the Jungle in that era.
He became the official image creator for the musical group's international performances, and later assumed the role of the house photographer for the historic Harlem venue, assembling an incredible portfolio of black musicians. Together with his brother, he emerged as the key organizer behind bringing Nelson Mandela to speak in Harlem.
Family Legacy
Brathwaite's son the younger Brathwaite is interviewed the personal campaign to achieve proper recognition for his father's legacy after he was unjustly overlooked in the prestigious National Museum of African American History and Culture, established by Barack Obama in recent years.
The film additionally explores the inexpressibly painful genesis of Brathwaite's passion for image making: the shocking photographs of the young victim, the young civil rights murder victim whose mourning family member boldly demanded an uncovered casket so the brutal truth of bigoted brutality could not be covered up.
From Tragedy to Beauty
In this vision of violence, the visionary discovered a form of transformative realization that guided him toward images of aspiration. His work beautifully expressed community pride and typically subtle in messaging: he established a innovative symbolic representation of pride around which social causes could unite.
This represents an inspiring chronicle of artistic vision that continues to resonate decades later.
