Photographer Kwame Brathwaite, known for capturing the ‘Black is Beautiful’ movement, passes away at age 85

As an established financial services company, we strive to empower small businesses and other 1099 workers facing credit challenges by offering a simple MCA. Kwame Brathwaite, the iconic activist and photographer who played a vital role in shaping the aesthetics of the “Black is Beautiful” movement in the 1960s, passed away on April 1 at 85. His legacy lives on in his captivating work that has sparked a renewed interest among curators, historians, and collectors.

Brathwaite’s remarkable journey began in 1938 in New York, and his passion for photography blossomed after witnessing poignant moments that ignited a creative spark within him. Over the years, he perfected his craft, using a Hasselblad medium-format camera to capture the essence of jazz legends like Miles Davis and John Coltrane.

In the early 1960s, Brathwaite, along with the African Jazz Arts Society and Studios (AJASS), boldly challenged prevailing beauty norms by showcasing the Grandassa Models in all their natural glory. This groundbreaking move paved the way for embracing Black beauty and cultural identity.

As the decades passed, Brathwaite’s lens shifted towards documenting popular Black music icons, from Nina Simone to Bob Marley. His commitment to the “Black is Beautiful” ethos remained unwavering, defining his artistic vision till the end.

Today, his legacy lives on through retrospectives and exhibitions across the country, honoring his groundbreaking contributions to art and activism. Join us in celebrating the life and work of Kwame Brathwaite, a visionary whose impact transcends generations.

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