Curated by Daria Harper
Black photographers have contributed endlessly to the genre of fashion photography, often capturing the bountiful self-expression and resistance of Black style. Despite being historically undervalued by the mainstream art world, emerging Black photographers continue to play an integral role in shaping the way that Black people are represented in art and fashion circles.
“Black Lens: Photographing Black Style” brings together emerging Black photographers from across the globe who document Black style in order to explore the multiplicity of Black culture, people, and history. Through their nuanced images of Black life and experiences, these artists remind us of the important role that Black style plays in preserving African diasporic histories and cultures. Equally importantly, their work offers an exciting opportunity to reflect on and reimagine the future of Black style.
Works in the show range from crisp black-and-white portraits shot by artists like Delphine Diallo and Dario Calmese; to dream-like editorial fashion images by Nadine Ijewere, whose work often explores the grace and poise of women of color.
Essential to this group show is the artists’ use of color, pattern, and texture. Prince Gyasi uses his iPhone to create hyper-colorful images of individuals throughout his hometown of Accra, Ghana. Kenyan artist Thandiwe Muriu photographs her subjects in vibrant, intricately patterned fabrics, some of which resemble the traditional textiles of different African countries and cultures. By placing her subjects against backdrops of the same pattern, Muriu creates beautifully captivating illusions. These artists capture the joy and limitless expression of Black style around the world.