This past weekend I had “Art Saturday”, which is when I go out and visit multiple art galleries or museums. At the very top of my list to visit was “The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion” exhibit. This photo exhibit was curated by Antwaun Sargent and is currently on display at the Aperture Foundation gallery. It is a wonderful celebration of black photographers and creatives from all over the world. 

One of my favorite photos in the exhibit was taken by the young photographer Micaiah Carter. The photo of the woman enlarged on the doorway definitely caught my eye. It is the epitome of a natural beautiful black woman. From her big brown eyes, the braids in her hair, the way her edges are laid down to her natural curly hair peeking over the Burberry scarf. All of it is so relatable and that is why I was instantly attracted to it.

Throughout the exhibit I was overwhelmed with such joy by watching all of these great black artists have their work displayed for all to see. Being one of the first all black photography exhibits I have viewed I was overcome with a huge amount of admiration and inspiration. The way these artists approach their work was so inspiring.

Photographer and art director Adrienne Raquel’s artist quote was dedicated to myself and those alike.

After viewing her photographs, reading her quote and looking back at the photographs it was undoubtedly clear how she approaches her subjects for her work. Black women had often been subjects of varying artwork for centuries but to see why the artist chooses black women as the primary focus of her work was heartening.

As a black woman and creative this exhibit was definitely one to see. If you are in New York City or visiting anytime soon, I encourage you to stop by the Aperture Foundation gallery to view this exhibit that will be on display until January 18, 2020.