Presented by
BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD OF TENNESSEE
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KREN THE CURATOR
ABOUT THE COLLECTION
Captured Essence is a photographic collection celebrating life and creativity through the lens of Black creatives. The featured portraits and candid quotes recognize Chattanoogan photographers across a variety of genres from family and health to culture. Viewers are invited to engage with the works, and acquaint themselves with those behind the camera. Presented in black & white, the installation contributes to the timeless beauty of classic photography and the lifelong bond between African-Americans and the Arts.
CURATOR’S NOTES
According to Oxford Languages, Essence is defined as “the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.” Its synonyms are soul, nature, and spirit. *
The featured photographers have captured the energy of their models all experiencing different moments in their lives. This touches on how the African-American experience is far from monolithic, yet always full of beauty. The installation is housed on the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee campus, in an area that isn’t intended for pausing or contemplation, so I knew that the works needed to be captivating. I felt that 4-foot portraits filtered in vintage black & white would set the tone. Considering BlueCross’ main objectives for their Black History Month program (engagement and understanding), along with the national theme (African-Americans and the Arts), I thought about how often the public is familiar with the artwork, but not the artist. To serve as an introduction, I requested an artist statement from each photographer to accompany their piece; that way the artist is heard with their work.
FEATURED ARTISTS
SHAWNE BAILEY
“We all share similarities, but the uniqueness of every individual is always there, ready to be seen.”
feautred PHOTO
Brie Stevens captured for Self Love project
JOSHUA ETCHISON
“We’re documentaries, which means every day is an opportunity to capture history.”
feautred PHOTO
Jaylen Moore captured in Searching
KRISTAL HACKER
“Capture the moment. Portraits are beautiful stories, emotions & connections frozen in time.”
FEATURED PHOTO
Captured: Taylor Martin & Kahla Stewart
MARCHERIE J. SAVAGE (MARCHERIE JAMENE MARKETING)
“MJM shapes your brand’s future, tones its presence, and expands your influence.”
FEATURED PHOTO
Darryl Eubanks captured in Presence, Power, Growth
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