The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Post

Think on how we present info to kids in classes, exactly like we present a mechanical Hare to racing greyhounds on a racetrack, adjusting the speed as needed to deliver the desired outcome. Your thoughts on a racetrack comparison in regard competition in edu? It is the same with health insurance, and with food insecurity, and with impoverished families, and with the education-system too.  We carefully monitor the number of developing children going hungry to be sure the number is acceptable without asking ourselves why we accept any hunger in any child anywhere, ever - treatable diseases left untreated - hungry left unfed - unhoused left unsheltered from the weather - WHY? Why do we fail to do these things in adequate measure? Why is it so important to ration the minimum needed to survive? Why are teaching & learning competitive sports? Why is having good health into a very old age by surviving bad luck & disease treated like a competitive sport, even including rewards & penalties? Competition has zero to do with education (or healthcare), period. If 85% of kids are physically able to read, then 85% should be able to read! How dare we blame students by presuming they cannot read because they haven't "wanted" & "deserved" it enough to deserve to be allowed to "catch" our reading"-Hare!" Why do we do this to our children? This is the root cause of all of these seemingly disconnected issues that result in poor reading outcomes. Why? Here is what to do:  De-Colonialize the grading system at K-12 & Universities! #ColonializedEdu is "Why" & you/we are the Reason that "Most Kids Can't Read!" --> 2LEARN is 2CHANGE:  What is #DeColonializedEdu?  #DeColonizeEdu! - YOU were FALSELY taught to think that the "#naturallaw" of "#evolution" by "#competition"& "#survivalofthefittest" "optimizes for fitness & survival!" FACT: "Evolution" does NOT work by "competition"& does NOT "optimize!" If 85% of 3rd graders are fully-able to earn an A+ in reading & math, yet only 30% can read at their grade level, then... what? - We must expect that all that can learn, learn - Expect 100% of all, equally - Go! Dear School Board Members/Others - Just use the same assessment pedagogy as do the #Ancient8 Ivy & #Divine9 #HBCU Universities! All of the most elite Ivy & HBCU Universities use (with varying fidelity) a de-Colonialized P/F (pass-fail) grading assessment pedagogy that expects 100% scores from each of their fully-capable students! What is a De-Colonialized (#decolonialized) Grading (#dcgrading) Assessment (#dcassessment)? This: If 85% of 3rd graders are able-bodied enough to fully-earn an A+ in reading & math, then 85% must be our goal as trained professionals, paid to do this. For real. All means all. Equity. Decolonialize. Right? #Ancient8 Ivy's + #Divine9 #HBCU's = #dc17 #decolonialized-17 #decolonialize17/#decolonialized17

Collect Black Art. Read this latest article giving 10 compelling reasons to collect black art.

Opinion | Black Artists and the Making of Transatlantic Modernism Black art and the politics of identity during the 1920s and 1930s. https://bit.ly/3TpSQFR

Invest in Black Art: Investing in Black art is a profoundly impactful act that uplifts not just the artists themselves but the culture and communities they represent. Read how it uplifts. #blackfineart #signourguestbook #jacoblawrence https://lnkd.in/g84KSFu5

Looking for a reading list that celebrates the rich history of Black style? In honor of the 2025 Met Gala’s theme Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, we’ve curated a collection of must-read books that explore the impact of Black dandyism, fashion, and identity throughout history. These books show how Black individuals across time and continents have used style to challenge societal norms and push boundaries in powerful, culturally significant ways. 📚 Black Ivy by Jason Jules & Graham Marsh: A deep dive into how Black men like Malcolm X, James Baldwin, and Miles Davis redefined the Ivy League look, turning it into a symbol of cool and resistance during the civil rights movement. 📚 Slaves to Fashion by Monica L. Miller: The inspiration behind the Met Gala theme itself! Miller's work explores Black dandyism from 18th-century London to modern-day style icons, highlighting how fashion has always been a tool for Black men to reimagine their identities. 📚 The Birth of Cool by Carol Tulloch: A powerful exploration of how Black style, from jazz musicians to everyday figures, has become a global symbol of change, identity, and resistance. 📚 The Chiffon Trenches by André Leon Talley: In this memoir, Talley reflects on his rise in the fashion industry, sharing insights on breaking barriers and the political nature of style. 📚 Ann Lowe: American Couturier by Elizabeth Way: A tribute to the life and legacy of Ann Lowe, a Black couturier whose designs, including Jackie Kennedy’s wedding gown, helped shape American fashion—though her contributions were often overlooked. These reads remind us that style isn’t just about clothes—it’s about identity, history, and challenging the status quo. Which one will you be reading first? #BlackFashionHistory #MetGala2025 #BlackStyle #BlackGirlsInArchives

Appreciating fine Black art involves a multifaceted approach that extends beyond mere observation. It’s about engaging with the art on several levels, understanding its context, and recognizing the unique contributions of Black artists to the broader art world. Here are some ways to appreciate fine Black art: 1. Educational Engagement Learn About the Artists: Understand the lives, histories, and inspirations of Black artists. Many Black artists draw upon personal experiences, cultural history, and societal challenges in their work. Understand the Historical Context: Black art often reflects the socio-political contexts of its time. Understanding the historical background enriches the appreciation of the art. 2. Cultural Participation Visit Galleries and Museums: Many institutions specifically focus on Black art or have significant collections of work by Black artists. Visiting these spaces supports them and offers an immersive experience. Attend Art Shows and Fairs: Art shows, fairs, and exhibitions often feature contemporary Black artists. These events are opportunities to see current trends and themes within the community. 3. Support and Patronage Purchase Art: Buying art directly supports artists and contributes to their ability to continue creating. It also brings the beauty of Black art into homes and institutions. Donate to Arts Organizations: Many organizations work to promote Black artists and provide them with platforms. Donating to these causes supports the broader ecosystem. 4. Community Engagement Participate in Workshops and Talks: Engaging in dialogues about Black art, attending artist talks, and participating in workshops can deepen understanding and appreciation. Follow and Promote on Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool for discovering new artists and promoting their work. Sharing and promoting Black art can increase visibility. 5. Critical Reflection Reflect on Personal Responses: Consider how personal experiences and perspectives influence the interpretation of art. Openness to learning and being challenged is crucial. Engage Critically: Look beyond aesthetics to engage with the themes, narratives, and techniques in Black art. Critical engagement can lead to a richer appreciation. 6. Academic Study Read Books and Articles: There’s a wealth of literature on Black art, from academic texts to more accessible articles and books. These resources can provide deeper insights. Take Courses: Some educational institutions offer courses specifically focused on Black art and its history. 7. Networking and Communities Join Art Groups and Societies: Being part of art communities can offer opportunities for learning, sharing, and discussing art with like-minded individuals. Appreciating fine Black art is an ongoing journey of learning, supporting, and engaging with the art and the artists. It requires a commitment to understanding the cultural, historical, and personal narratives that shape the artwork.

Steve O. Black's unique blend of imagination and skill has captivated the art world, transforming everyday materials into extraordinary masterpieces. With a career spanning decades, Black's work is a testament to the power of creativity and craftsmanship. His journey, marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, invites us to explore the profound impact of art on our lives. In this article, we delve into the world of Steve O. Black, uncovering the stories behind his most iconic pieces and the inspiration that drives his remarkable artistry. To learn more go to: https://smpl.is/96tta

Today we celebrate Juneteenth—the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Texas received word they were free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day marks the official end of slavery in the United States and honors the strength and vibrance of Black communities. While every day is a great day to support Black-owned businesses, we want to highlight a few exceptional Black brands in our industry that you should absolutely check out: ILE ILA House of Lines: contemporary furniture/lifestyle line hand-made in Nigeria Yara African Fabrics: beautiful African prints and design @Nicole Crowder: acclaimed independent designer and upholsterer Support Black creators, companies, and communities today and every day. #Juneteenth #SupportBlackBusinesses #GMFFabrics

Appreciating fine Black art involves a multifaceted approach that extends beyond mere observation. It’s about engaging with the art on several levels, understanding its context, and recognizing the unique contributions of Black artists to the broader art world. Here are some ways to appreciate fine Black art: 1. Educational Engagement Learn About the Artists: Understand the lives, histories, and inspirations of Black artists. Many Black artists draw upon personal experiences, cultural history, and societal challenges in their work. Understand the Historical Context: Black art often reflects the socio-political contexts of its time. Understanding the historical background enriches the appreciation of the art. 2. Cultural Participation Visit Galleries and Museums: Many institutions specifically focus on Black art or have significant collections of work by Black artists. Visiting these spaces supports them and offers an immersive experience. Attend Art Shows and Fairs: Art shows, fairs, and exhibitions often feature contemporary Black artists. These events are opportunities to see current trends and themes within the community. 3. Support and Patronage Purchase Art: Buying art directly supports artists and contributes to their ability to continue creating. It also brings the beauty of Black art into homes and institutions. Donate to Arts Organizations: Many organizations work to promote Black artists and provide them with platforms. Donating to these causes supports the broader ecosystem. 4. Community Engagement Participate in Workshops and Talks: Engaging in dialogues about Black art, attending artist talks, and participating in workshops can deepen understanding and appreciation. Follow and Promote on Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool for discovering new artists and promoting their work. Sharing and promoting Black art can increase visibility. 5. Critical Reflection Reflect on Personal Responses: Consider how personal experiences and perspectives influence the interpretation of art. Openness to learning and being challenged is crucial. Engage Critically: Look beyond aesthetics to engage with the themes, narratives, and techniques in Black art. Critical engagement can lead to a richer appreciation. 6. Academic Study Read Books and Articles: There’s a wealth of literature on Black art, from academic texts to more accessible articles and books. These resources can provide deeper insights. Take Courses: Some educational institutions offer courses specifically focused on Black art and its history. 7. Networking and Communities Join Art Groups and Societies: Being part of art communities can offer opportunities for learning, sharing, and discussing art with like-minded individuals.

Did you know the 2024 theme for Black History Month is "African Americans and the Arts," with a focus on the lived experiences of those who are African, Caribbean and African American? The influence of the Black community has been paramount in the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression. Learn more about Black History Month themes from ASALH (Association for the Study of African American Life and History).