Boundaries and perspectives

Upon research gathered from Edward Said, image is a very bold medium in which messages are delivered and ideas are reinforced. Gender, stereotypes and normality is constantly being questioned and redefined in the 21st century particularly through fashion. Whilst fashion is an arguably cliche route I believe there is something quite powerful in the manipulation of a garment designed originally designed to fit a particular person. British stylist Ib Kamara refreshingly tackles black masculinity, approaching it from a fresh and tasteful perspective. The role of the black man throughout history is is always been one of a barbarian and a criminal. From the African man oppressed through slavery and made to be nothing more than a mere animal to the 21st century where the stereotype of the "criminal black man" is ever present, it is clear to see that notions of sensitivity are far removed from him. By Kamara choosing to extenuate never seen before attributes of the black male, he attempts to alter the sinister narrative and portray him in a new light. What particularly appeals to me is how the black male is not compromised in the image, there is a strength that pierces through the garments and begins to compliment it. A synergy begins to develop between the two, telling a delicate story of tainted history, strength and reinvention.