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Harlem Renaissance

Photography
James Van Der Zee's photography played an important role in shaping and documenting the cultural and social life of Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. His photographs were instrumental in shaping the image and identity of the African American community during the Harlem Renaissance. His work documented the achievements of cultural figures and helped to challenge stereotypes and racist attitudes which in turn promoted pride and dignity among African Americans in Harlem and beyond.

Van Der Zee's studio was not just a place for taking photographs; it was also a social and cultural hub for Harlem residents. People would come to his studio not only to have their portraits taken, but also to socialize and to participate in the community events that he hosted. Van Der Zee's studio played an important role in the cultural life of Harlem during the early 20th century, and helped to foster a sense of community and pride among its residents.

Some notable persons photographed are Marcus Garvey the leader of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), a black nationalist organization that promoted Pan-Africanism and economic independence for African Americans. Other notable black persons he photographed are Countee Cullen - the poet and writer who was associated with the Harlem Renaissance. Josephine Baker - the dancer and entertainer who became famous in France and was known for her provocative performances. W.E.B. Du Bois - the sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist who was a leading figure in the African American community in the early 20th century. Langston Hughes - the poet, novelist, and playwright who was one of the most important writers of the Harlem Renaissance. Madam C.J. Walker - the entrepreneur and philanthropist who was one of the first African American women to become a self-made millionaire as well as her daughter. Dorthy Waring an artist and author of 12 novel

Van Der Zee's work gained renewed attention in the 1960s and 1970s, when interest in the Harlem Renaissance was revived. Van Der Zee's photographs have been featured in numerous exhibitions over the years. One notable exhibition was "Harlem on My Mind: Cultural Capital of Black America, 1900-1968," which was organized by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1969. The exhibit included over 300 photographs, many of which were by VanDerZee, and was one of the first major exhibitions to focus on the cultural achievements of African Americans in Harlem.

James Van Der Zee's work were the eyes of Harlem, his photographs are recognized as important documents of African American life and culture during the early 20th century. His photographs served as a visual record of the achievements of the Harlem Renaissance. His portraits of writers, musicians, artists, and other cultural figures helped to promote their work and bring attention to the vibrant creative scene known as Harlem.

My self portrait

Wikipedia Blind spots https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harlem

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