September 21, 2018

Rising Above a Devilish Fire: Portraits of Black Americans

"I'm from Farragut, now known as DUMBO. I grew up in Farragut housing known for the Brooklyn Bridge, double dutch teams, dope block parties, and a profound sense of familial and cultural pride!" - Tarisse (Farragut). Activist. Curator. Image © Makeba Rainey

"I loved Harlem. Why would I go someplace else? I loved the people. I loved to hear the music when it was warm outside, talking to people, walking...and poverty, yes. Everything wasn’t rosy, but I didn’t want to move to...Brooklyn” - Mama Nonkululeko (Harlem). Midwife. Matriarch. Image © Makeba Rainey

"I lived in a place where I saw Black people who were artists, business owners, politicians, or just everyday people; struggle, commune, enjoy life, and create." - Sage (Fort Green). Writer. Sister (2/3). Image © Makeba Rainey

From the series "Soul(s) of..." by Makeba Rainey.

"My family feels Flatbush is their heart. However, now with gentrification, we are feeling parts of us are being taken away." - Latasha (Flatbush). Rapper. Bruja. Image © Makeba Rainey

"The people define [Brooklyn]. I think we're just a colorful people. Whether it be personality, complexion, style, or personal interests, Brooklyn has lots of color and flavor." - Baindu (Bed-Stuy). Performance Artist. Educator. Image © Makeba Rainey

“Growing up my neighborhood was all about community. This community-like mentality has stuck with me as I enter adulthood. I thrive off of being around caring and loving individuals. I have a need to get involved and give back.” - Nija (Fort Greene). Mom-to-be. Sister (3/3). Image © Makeba Rainey

"I was born and raised in a Black Girl paradise one with harsh realities like poverty, drugs, violence AND unmatched possibility, hustle, and community care." - Brittany (Bed-Stuy). Entrepreneur. Homegirl. Image © Makeba Rainey

From the series "Soul(s) of..." by Makeba Rainey.

“But what of Black women?…I most sincerely doubt if any other race of women could have brought its fineness up through so devilish a fire.” – W.E.B. Du Bois “By centering her work around social justice, specifically in regard to Black Americans, community becomes the key to liberation,” reads Makeba Rainey’s artist statement. Rainey’s project,... Read More