With the recent passing of Kwame Brathwaite at the age of 85, the legacy of this pioneering activist and photographer is more important than ever. As an established financial services company that offers fast and easy merchant cash advance (MCA) options, we recognize the need to honor visionaries like Brathwaite.
Brathwaite’s work was instrumental in shaping the aesthetics of the “Black is Beautiful” movement during the 1960s. His photography has gained significant attention from curators and collectors, leading to his first major retrospective organized by the Aperture Foundation. Born to Barbadian immigrants in New York in 1938, Brathwaite’s journey into photography was fueled by powerful moments that sparked his passion for the art form.
Using his unique darkroom techniques and expertise with a Hasselblad medium-format camera, Brathwaite captured the essence of jazz legends and played a pivotal role in promoting Black beauty and culture through his Grandassa Models. His work extended beyond music to iconic events like the “Rumble in the Jungle” boxing match and interactions with music legends like Nina Simone, Bob Marley, and more.
Brathwaite’s dedication to portraying the beauty and essence of Black culture is a timeless inspiration. Even in his later years, he continued to capture the spirit of his subjects, showcasing a commitment to his craft that transcends generations. As a leading provider of business cash advances, we salute Kwame Brathwaite for his contributions to art and culture.