Take a behind-the-lens look at the Boca Raton Museum of Art’s latest photography exhibition, Reginald Cunningham: Black Pearls.
Artist Reginald Cunningham
“Pastor Ronald Brown” (2022)
Just steps away from the Boca Raton Museum of Art lives the historically Black neighborhood of Pearl City—a place celebrated as one of the earliest and longest-lasting African American neighborhoods in Florida. In honor of its neighbors, the museum proudly presents Reginald Cunningham: Black Pearls, a first-ever solo museum exhibition of Cunningham’s work. “Through the lens of my photography I’m always trying to create affinity for and uplift Black people and the Black experience in this country,” shares Cunningham. “Being commissioned by the Boca Raton Museum of Art to photograph the residents and cultural emblems of Pearl City—one of the South’s most beloved and enduring Black districts—is an amazing experience.”
“Faith” (2022)
Known for his urban-style imagery and portraiture, Cunningham takes an editorial-meets-activist approach to photography, focusing on concerts, fashion icons, thought leaders and more. Now, he zooms in on Pearl City, leaving no resident or corner unseen. “Because there is perpetually the threat of development that would throw asunder this neighborhood, we want to tell this story through the current residents whose ancestors were the original settlers,” explains the Boca Raton Museum of Art’s Executive Director Irvin Lippman. “To accomplish this visual storytelling, the museum selected Reginald Cunningham, whose photography celebrates Black identity and is currently earning national and international acclaim. It is a rare artist whose social activism matches their artistry. These works by Reginald Cunningham have now entered the museum’s collection. This is most definitely a project born in the community that serves to create a record for future generations.”
“Ms. Gladys Bettis” (2022)
“Mr. John Martin” (2022)
The exhibition is complete with a fully illustrated catalog, including an essay about the artist written by Imani M. Cheers and historical essay by Candace Cunningham. Visitors can listen to the stories of current-day residents and children of the original settlers that have moved away to other cities to learn about its honored past. As for the art? The exhibition includes 24 photographs by Cunningham, alongside personal mementos passed down through families for more than 100 years. He interviewed each of his subjects before their portrait sittings and shot physical and ephemeral elements that make up the community.
Cunningham’s “Pearl City Entrance - Federal Highway” (2022)
“Pearl City Historical District” (2022)
The exhibition not only expresses the history of Pearl City but protects the city, its residents and landmarks. With the help of the Developing Interracial Social Change organization and an array of other community activists, it takes on a life bigger than its own, advocating for the designation of Pearl City as a State of Florida Historical District. The exhibit is on display through Jan. 22. 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 561.392.2500
“The Andersons” (2022)
The Black Pearls exhibition at the Boca Raton Museum of Art
Photography by: PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTIST; EXHIBIT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM
