Dandy Lion: (Re) Articulating Black Masculine Identity exhibit at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Photography is outstanding! The dignified role of African American and African men is encapsulated in the majestic tapestry that catapults the viewer onto a cultural journey. The images leap off the walls and pay homage to regal pageantry. Dandy Lion molds the idea of heritage and dignity without fear. The images capture the sartorial splendor of Black men.
Crowns can be seen on the heads of these kings, these warriors whose courage celebrates the value of Black men not waiting for permission to be themselves. Hats are the crowns. Dreadlocks are the crowns. Allowing all who become spectators and kingdom dwellers to applaud the timeless identity of strong Black men, that is the power of the Dandy Lion exhibit and the Dandy movement. Music and pageantry illuminate the energy surrounding the Dandy Lion shrine at the Museum of Contemporary Photography.
Paparazzi and fashion runway photographers set up inside Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Photography to capture the subjects who chose to be on the wall and celebrities in high image demand.
The Dandy prince showed up for the reveal and understood his future was at hand as he gazed into my lens. The exquisite dukes and duchesses of Chicago gave style cues to all who did not understand how to walk the room with Dandies in their midst.
Cheers to all to dare and wear unexplained dignity and the colors made for those who live life unapologetically masculine.
Shantrelle P. Lewis, curator, does a wonderful job of showcasing the Dandy movement with honor and the masculine identity of Black men.
