Glossary
Abolitionist Movement
A social and political movement in the 18th and 19th centuries dedicated to the immediate emancipation of enslaved people and the end of racial discrimination.
Example:
Sojourner Truth's strategic use of photography directly supported the abolitionist movement by raising funds and spreading awareness of her powerful message.
Black Aesthetic Traditions
Artistic principles, styles, and cultural expressions rooted in African and African American history, often characterized by vibrant colors, storytelling, symbolism, and community focus.
Example:
Amy Sherald's portraits often draw from Black aesthetic traditions through her distinctive use of grayscale skin tones and symbolic backgrounds.
Carte-de-Visites
Small, affordable photographic prints, popular in the 19th century, often used for personal exchange, collecting, or as a means of fundraising and activism.
Example:
Sojourner Truth famously sold her carte-de-visites to fund the abolitionist movement, making her image and cause widely accessible.
Contemporary Art of Black Leaders
Modern artistic creations that honor, reinterpret, or draw inspiration from historical and contemporary Black leaders, often incorporating elements of Black aesthetic traditions.
Example:
Kehinde Wiley's portrait of Barack Obama is a prominent example of contemporary art of Black leaders, blending classical portraiture with modern cultural references.
Controlling the Narrative
The act of taking agency over one's own story and public image, rather than allowing external forces or dominant societal views to define it.
Example:
By choosing their poses and expressions, Black leaders were actively controlling the narrative about Black identity and capabilities in the public sphere.
Counter-Stereotype Tool
A method or medium employed to directly oppose and dismantle prevailing negative or inaccurate stereotypes about a particular group of people.
Example:
19th-century Black leaders used formal photographic portraits as a powerful counter-stereotype tool, presenting themselves as respectable citizens rather than caricatures.
Curated Image
A carefully selected and presented public persona or visual identity, intentionally crafted to convey specific messages or qualities.
Example:
Douglass's curated image in his portraits consistently conveyed intellect and sophistication, directly refuting racist stereotypes about Black inferiority.
Dignified Representation
The portrayal of individuals or groups in a manner that conveys respect, honor, and inherent worth, often in direct contrast to demeaning or stereotypical depictions.
Example:
Sojourner Truth's photographs aimed for dignified representation, showing her as strong and determined, which was revolutionary for Black women at the time.
Historical and Cultural References
The inclusion of symbols, themes, events, or figures from a specific historical period or cultural background within an artwork to add depth and meaning.
Example:
Bisa Butler's textile art frequently incorporates historical and cultural references by transforming archival photos of Black Americans into vibrant, narrative quilts.
Photography as a Tool for Change
The strategic use of photography by African American leaders to challenge negative stereotypes, assert dignity, and reshape public perception during the 19th century.
Example:
Frederick Douglass utilized photography as a tool for change by meticulously crafting his image to convey intellect and sophistication, directly countering racist caricatures.
Preserving Legacies
The act of ensuring that the stories, achievements, and impact of individuals or groups are remembered and honored through artistic creation or other means.
Example:
Contemporary artists contribute to preserving legacies by creating powerful and inspiring artworks that keep the stories of Black leaders alive for future generations.
Textile Art
Art created using fibers, fabrics, and other textile materials, often involving techniques like weaving, quilting, embroidery, or dyeing.
Example:
Bisa Butler's unique textile art transforms historical photographs into vibrant, life-sized quilted portraits, reclaiming and celebrating Black history.
Visual Analysis
The systematic examination and interpretation of visual sources, such as photographs or artworks, to understand their context, composition, purpose, and conveyed message.
Example:
When performing a visual analysis of Harriet Tubman's portraits, students should consider how her pose and expression contribute to her image as a determined and resilient leader.
Visual Proof
Evidence presented in a visual format that serves to substantiate a claim or challenge a misconception, often used to demonstrate truth or reality.
Example:
Douglass's numerous photographs served as visual proof of Black dignity and intellectual capacity, directly contradicting the dehumanizing caricatures prevalent at the time.
Visual Representation
The depiction of individuals, ideas, or concepts through visual media, which can significantly influence public perception and understanding.
Example:
Frederick Douglass understood the profound power of visual representation to challenge racist ideologies and inspire others towards equality.