Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the Present

Name/Title

Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the Present

Description

Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the Present explores the evolving representations of Black beauty and identity in American photography and visual culture. Curated by Deborah Willis, a leading scholar in African American art and photography, this powerful and visually striking volume examines how African Americans have shaped—and reshaped—their image across more than a century. Featuring the work of photographers such as Gordon Parks, Carrie Mae Weems, James Van Der Zee, Mickalene Thomas, and many others, the book brings together portraits, fashion photography, documentary images, and contemporary art to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the complexity, resilience, and creativity of Black life. With insightful essays and historical context, Posing Beauty offers a rich and nuanced look at the intersections of race, gender, class, and aesthetics, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in photography, cultural history, or African American studies.

Publication Details

Author

Deborah Willis

Publisher

W.W. Norton & Company - New York - London

ISBN

978-0-393-06696-8

Dimensions

Height

12-1/4 in

Width

9-1/4 in

Depth

1 in