Johnnie Black – Exposing Jamaican Legends

Situated in the earthy environment of 10a West Kings road were images craved worldwide. Johnnie Black the renowned Jamaican photographer showcased hidden gems.

This event was hosted and curated by the profound Maxine Walters who I had the benefit of asking “What was the process like of getting this show together “. She replied with much verve as she exclaimed: “It took three weeks to get everything together, it was a lot of hard work!”. She leaked out the fact that she was quite elated at the turnout and her constant skanking with her cane made me appreciate even more the work that was done.

There was a fantastic panel discussion as Johnnie proclaimed his triumph as he told the audience about his work with reggae legends such as Black Uhuru and the man himself Robert ‘Nesta’ Marley. He went on to speak how he got into the music and photography business and how his focused changed after a while. His photography was no longer reggae icons and concerts but was now focused on birds, cricket and the wider aspects of nature. I asked him why he took so long to reveal these photos to which he commented: “There were under mi bed for 40 years enu and one-day mi just pull dem out”.

Icons such as Johnnie Black should be idolized as the visual pioneers they are. Witnessing this visual masterclass was a necessary cultural education as it reminded me of the pioneers of our music.