The Photographs that Shaped the Black Arts Movement in the Mid-20th Century explores how photography elevated artists, organizers and activists during the Jim Crow era. The exhibition at the Mississippi Museum of Art features over 100 works across various genres, from self-portraits to social critiques.
One standout piece is Ralph Arnold's collage 'Above This Earth, Games, Games', which juxtaposes football matches with images of war and destruction. Ernest Withers' photograph of Memphis sanitation workers picketing also captures the essence of resistance against systemic racism. The exhibition includes a dynamic black-and-white photo by Ming Smith featuring Sun Ra, the enigmatic jazz leader.
In Julian Bond's words, 'Pictures told ... of the strength and beauty of the people'. This quote contextualizes how photography served as both a tool for political change and a form of cultural expression during this pivotal period. The exhibition runs from July 25 to November 8 in Jackson.
