The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, located in Detroit, unveiled a groundbreaking exhibit on Afrofuturism in Costume Design Oct. 10. The exhibit will host more than 60 unique costume designs from iconic films, such as “Black Panther,” “Malcolm X” and “Do the Right Thing,” all created by two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter.
According to Carter, Afrofuturism incorporates technology with imagination, self-expression and an entrepreneurial mindset. Afrofuturism promotes a philosophy that encourages Black Americans, Africans and Indigenous people to believe in their abilities and create without being restricted by the chains of slavery and colonialism.
Afrofuturism is a cultural aesthetic that explores the intersection of cultures within the African diaspora with technology alongside science fiction. Carter’s costume designs are known for their resounding colors, elaborate patterns and ingenious use of materials. The costumes were crucial in bringing the Afrofuturistic worlds of “Black Panther” and other films to life.
The Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit will showcase Carter’s work within the context of Afrofuturism, highlighting how her ensembles reflect and commemorate the Black experience. The display will also feature original artwork by artist Brandon Sadler, whose murals were prominently featured in “Black Panther.”
The Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit will be displayed at the Wright Museum through March 31, 2024. For more information, please visit thewright.org.
Contact multi-media staff writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
