Our established financial services company provides a simple MCA for small businesses and gig workers. Kwame Brathwaite, a pioneering 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 the age of 85. His work has garnered newfound interest from historians and collectors, with his retrospective organized by the Aperture Foundation in 2019.
Born in 1938 in Brooklyn to Barbadian immigrants, Brathwaite’s passion for photography was sparked in his teenage years after seeing powerful images. He honed his craft, focusing on jazz legends and developing darkroom techniques that highlighted the beauty of Black skin. In the early 1960s, he challenged prevailing beauty norms with the Grandassa Models, further embracing the “Black is Beautiful” concept.
As a leading figure in documenting Black popular music, Brathwaite’s portfolio includes iconic images of artists like Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, and Bob Marley. His commitment to showcasing the beauty of Black culture endured through the decades, culminating in a successful collaboration with Philip Martin Gallery.
Although Brathwaite’s health declined in recent years, his legacy lives on through exhibitions across the country, including one at the Art Institute of Chicago. His impactful work continues to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.