DIVINE WOMAN
The Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery at the Smith Center for Healing and the Arts is pleased to exhibit Divine Woman curated by Selena "Noir" Jackson. This exhibition will open on Friday, March 8th, and be on display though May 10th.
“Divine Woman is a captivating exploration into the sacred tapestry of Black womanhood. Through the lens of Reginald Cunningham, this exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the question: "What does it mean to be a beautiful Black woman?" Cunningham began this series as a response to seeing Black women being denigrated for their aesthetic choices while women are celebrated for appropriating this aesthetic. Each portrait within this collection serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of Black womanhood and a celebration of the diverse expressions of beauty that defy categorization. From bold hairstyles to striking fashion statements his subjects radiate with an undeniable beauty that transcends societal constructs and embraces the inherent richness of their identity and individuality. This exhibition is a space where we take the time to appreciate the multifacetedness of Black Womanhood. Their hoop earring, braids, and gold jewelry are more than just a means of following trends on social media; they are part of a collective experience that is unique to Black Women and cannot be replicated or consumed.” - Selena “Noir” Jackson
Reginald Cunningham, known professionally as Reggie Noble, is a creative and photographer, and the visionary behind the "Pure Black" brand. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and dual Master's degrees in Digital & Multimedia Design and Promotional Communications, Reginald blends visual storytelling, editorial insight, and a deep understanding of digital media to create compelling photographic narratives.
Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and now residing in the Washington D.C. area, Reginald's passion for photography is a legacy inherited from his mother, a dedicated photographer for over three decades. His work is characterized by an edgy, intimate style, focusing on portraiture, music photography, and particularly, the representation of Black experiences. Through his lens, Reginald seeks to forge a visual connection with all facets of Black life, offering viewers a unique, empowering perspective on his subjects.
Reginald's approach to photography is deeply personal and collaborative. He excels in creating a comfortable space for his clients, allowing them to see themselves through his lens, thereby capturing their most authentic selves. His exceptional ability to put subjects at ease is a hallmark of his work, making him a sought-after photographer for those seeking a truly intimate and affirming portrait experience.
His career has led to features in international publications such as British Vogue, Bon Appétit Magazine, Essence, Ebony, The Huffington Post, The Washington Post, and Buzzfeed. His series “Black Pearls” highlighting the historically Black community of Pearl City, Florida has been selected as part of the permanent collection at The Boca Raton Museum of Art. These accolades not only highlight his skill and versatility as a photographer but also underscore his commitment to elevating the narratives of the Black community through powerful imagery.
Please follow the link above to schedule a viewing. If there are preferred viewing times outside of the booking schedule, please contact the gallery manager at sara@smithcenter.org