This exhibition traces the evolution of the Black dandy from its origins in Enlightenment Europe during the 18th century to its modern-day expressions in cities around the globe.
Inspired by Monica L. Miller’s influential book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, the exhibition examines how sartorial style has played a crucial role in shaping Black identities within the Atlantic diaspora. Historically, the term “dandy” referred to someone—often a man—who was exceptionally devoted to style, treating it as a form of discipline. In 18th-century Europe, as the Atlantic slave trade intersected with a burgeoning consumer culture, Black men were often dandified as fashionably dressed servants. However, dandyism became a powerful tool for Black individuals to redefine their identities, using clothing, gesture, irony, and wit to envision new social and political possibilities.
The exhibition brings the story of the Black dandy to life through a diverse array of media, including garments and accessories, drawings and prints, paintings, photographs, film excerpts, and more. These narratives collectively offer a rich history and nuanced understanding of Black dandyism, reflecting broader themes of power and race within the Black diaspora.
Join us in celebrating this unique and thought-provoking exhibition that not only honors the past but also inspires future generations to embrace their own style and identity.
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