An exhibit at the Detroit Institute of Arts, “Regeneration: Black Cinema 1898-1971,” explores the influential but overlooked role of trailblazing African American filmmakers and actors during the early days of cinema through the Civil Rights Movement. The exhibit, on display at the museum through June 23, shares the racial barriers and challenges several African American artists overcame to showcase their talents in cinema. The exhibit was originally organized by the Academy Museum of Motion Picture.
The exhibit features almost 200 historical artifacts such as photographs, costumes, props, posters and interactive elements, as well as newsreels, home movies, a selection of fully restored rarely seen films and more. The Detroit Film Theatre at the Detroit Institute of Arts is also presenting a film series with the exhibit, featuring over 20 film events highlighting the history of Black cinema and representation.
“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson speaks with Detroit Institute of Arts Curator and Head of the Center for African American Art Valerie Mercer about the museum’s landmark exhibition. They discuss some of the early films produced by Blacks, the importance of having this exhibit on display in Detroit at the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the impact these early African American filmmakers and performers have had on Blacks in film today.
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Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit Public TV, WTVS-Channel 56.
