BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK

At a time when black women’s images were very much considered something to be discovered, managed, and ultimately shaped by white men, these ladies were holding their own. Consider Josephine Baker, who worked the system, skyrocketing herself to wealth and fame by reclaiming ugly stereotypes. Or Diana Ross, who was such a force of nature that the sheer power of her personality could shatter the glass ceiling. Nichelle Gainer’s Vintage Black Glamour beautifully chronicles their careers, as well as the stories of other, lesser-known women like opera singer Margaret Tynes and model Ophelia DeVore. Tonight Gainer, a fashion and art journalist, will discuss the project that led to this beautifully compiled volume.

Tue., March 10, 6 p.m., 2015