For the next long while, Article of Inspiration posts will focus exclusively on black, female artists working with and around the representation of black women through photography. Since I’ve decided to take daily photographs of me and my clothes, the work I’m doing somehow falls in line with a very talented a thoughtful group of artists.
Discovering these artists has been helpful on a number of levels. When I first conceived of this project, I had so many doubts. I didn’t really know of any black artists besides Jean Michel Basquiat, whose been dead for some time now. It felt like I was trying to accomplish the impossible. I’ve come to realize that some of the things I am trying to say have been said before, so this project doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s also just encouraging to know that I’m not the only one who cares about these things.
On to Carrie Mae Weems, who is best known for Kitchen Table, a series of photographs staged at the kitchen table in her own home.
Check out the clip below to hear her speak about these photos.
I did a post a few days ago about reflections, Carrie has definitely used this theme in other photographs she’s created.
From a series called Not Manet’s Type
I couldn’t find the exact title of this one, but it’s something like: “I looked to try and see what frightened you so.” That’s probably not right, but I hope it gets the idea across.
Here is a particular favorite of mine called Thoughts on Marriage:
I’m not sure that she was even married when she made it, but I felt the same way after attending a bridal shower where the guests weren’t allowed to talk about weddings or marriage. Some kind of “game” I was told. Isn’t that the opposite of what’s supposed to happen at a bridal shower? This still confuses me.
The more I dig, the more of Carrie Mae’s work I find, and it’s all amazing. She has been incredibly prolific and at some point started working in video. I am going to end with this piece called Afro Chic, which is everything I’ve ever wanted.
Love and Enjoy.
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