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Sunday, October 14, 2012

African Art & Design: Solange Knowles' Losing You

Fashion maven and singer Solange Knowles just released a new song and video entitled "Losing You." The song has an 80's British Soul /Pop vibe. The visual, is a colorful adventure that is part fashion show, part music video and part tour of a township in Capetown South Africa.  It was produced by Dev Hynes, directed by Melina Matsoukas, and styled by Ty Hunter among others. The video was inspired by and includes men from the Le Sape Society (Society for the Advancement of People of Elegance), an exclusive club of elegant and impeccably dressed men from the heart of the Congo. They are featured in photographer Daniele Tamagni’s book, Gentleman of Bacongo . However, the video is not without controversy. Some critics labeled the video exploitative and questioned the relevance of the ghetto chic location. But that is to be expected; after all artistic expression is often criticized.  What do you think?

2 comments:

  1. I think Solange is adorable. I appreciate how she makes the connection to the Mother Land and gives her props to African style, culture and influence. As far as the critics, I would say don't listen to them! The economic commerce alone that was created from shooting the video in South Africa speaks volumes about Solange and how authentic appreciation of art can been healing as well as profitable.

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  2. Thanks Pheralyn, Excellent viewpoint!

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