Melanated Artistry Arts & Culture

Cover Photo by: Kenny Germé

In the book "As We See It: Artists Redefining Black Identity," a diverse and powerful group of artists, including Prince Gyasi, Nadine Ijewere, Campbell Addy, Chris Facey, Emeka Okereke, Lina Iris Viktor, Braylen Dion, Girma Berta, Kenny Germé, Naima Green, Mikael Owunna, David Nana Opoku Ansah, Lebohang Kganye, Dario Calmese, Melissa Alcena, Davey Adesida, Takeisha Jefferson, Atong Atem, Donavon Smallwood, Henry J. Kamara, Zithelo Bobby Mthombeni, Ronan Mckenzie, Rahima Gambo, Allison Janae Hamilton, Sedrick Chisom, Lunga Ntila, Jodi Minnis, Délio Jasse, Joana Choumali, and Emma Prempeh, have the honor of contributing to a project which explores the rich and diverse experiences of Black artists.

Crafted by arts and culture writer Aida Amoako and published by Laurence King Publishing, the book delves into the complex subject of Black identity through the lens of these talented artists. These creators challenge limitations and stereotypes historically placed upon Black identity in the art world, ushering in a new narrative that resonates with authenticity and truth.

The idea of employing art to challenge preconceived notions of identity finds roots in the philosophy of Frederick Douglass. The renowned social reformer advocated for photography as a medium capable of breaking down stereotypes, drawing attention to the accurate representation of Black people. He argued against the prevalent dehumanizing caricatures, favoring the power of visual representation as a tool for abolition and equality.

Much in the spirit of Douglass's belief, "As We See It" engages with a new generation of artists employing various mediums like photography, sculpture, and painting to defy stereotypes and disrupt the status quo of the art world.

An important theme in the book is the concept of the Black gaze, which aims to dismantle the traditional white-centric perspective. The artists, through their work, create visually compelling narratives showcasing the spectrum of Black experience, from joy to love, and the representation of queer and non-binary identities. The power of the camera is underlined as an instrument for liberation and representation, echoing the sentiments of Gordon Parks, who once noted, "I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs."

In exploring these themes, the book highlights the critical role of narrative in understanding the Black experience. As artist Carrie Mae Weems insightfully points out, "Art is a way of recognizing oneself; that the world is not as fake as it will be presented to you to be."

"As We See It: Artists Redefining Black Identity" is currently available. As an exploration of diverse perspectives within the Black community and the art world, it promises to engage readers in deep reflection about the relevance of art as a medium that influences societal attitudes, echoing Douglass's convictions about the role of art in shaping society.

https://www.amazon.com/As-We-See-Image-Makers-Reshaping/dp/1786279584