Beyonce's Blackface

[knight_shadow]

Originally Posted by BluPhire

So question would it be an issue if it was person of a darker complexion that is painted lighter except certain parts?

I ask because sometimes I wonder where does offense end and art begin?

(I know I'm already laughing at even asking that question.)

My comment to my own question anybody that takes offense to the photo has a right to take offense, art has been known to be offensive.

I know these weren't for artistic purposes, but they did cause the "OMG HE'S TRYING TO BE WHITE. WHAT ABOUT YOUR ROOTS!?" arguments.

I really think that someone will cause a fuss regardless of which "direction" the complexion is going.

[DaemonSeid]

Originally Posted by knight_shadow

I know these weren't for artistic purposes, but they did cause the "OMG HE'S TRYING TO BE WHITE. WHAT ABOUT YOUR ROOTS!?" arguments.

I really think that someone will cause a fuss regardless of which "direction" the complexion is going.

I will see your Michael and add Sammy for your consideration

[BluPhire]

From the magazine (too lazy to spell it I know flame me for it.)

From theroot message board. Also an official e-mail sent to those who write in complaining.

http://www.theroot.com/buzz/beyonc-b...bute-fela-kuti

Lofficiel Mode
Thanks for the post !

L'OFFICIEL is very proud to present its March issue featuring Beyoncé in African-inspired dresses and jewelry by top designers, including Gucci, Azzedine Alaia, Fendi, Pucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Rodarte, Dolce & Gabbana, Cartier and Lanvin. Designer Tina Knowles, who is also Beyoncé's mother, created a one of a kind couture piece. The designs are all reflective of the African influence on fashion this season. Miss Knowles poses with royal allure. A queen, a goddess, Beyoncé is a bombshell beauty with a divine voice. We're thrilled she's opening a season of celebrating the 90th anniversary of L'Officiel de la Mode. The series was conceived as using art and fashion in paying homage to African queens.

Beyoncé mentioned the artist Fela Kuti in the interview as one of her musical inspirations. It was later misquoted as the inspiration for the shoot. We would like to clarify that it is not the case. As for the artistic makeup, the inspiration came from several African rituals during which paint is used on the face. We find the images beautiful and inspiring.

L'Officiel would like to thank Beyoncé for her outstanding contribution to this celebration of African influences in Fashion.

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by DaemonSeid

and don't forget the hair.

Blackface with 'blonde' hair...wow.

I have this feeling that not a lot of research was put into this venture for this to be a tribute.

***
BluPhire, their response was a big load of bullshit. Silence on their part would've made more sense.

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by BluPhire

So question would it be an issue if it was person of a darker complexion that is painted lighter except certain parts?

It is definitely an issue and it is related to the issue of blackface. For instance, people like Reggae star Vybz Kartel who is so darn angry that some people are blasting him for whitening his skin. He looks insecure, ugly, and utterly ridiculous with his new skin.



(Not directed at BluPhire) One thing to understand is that the issue with blackface has to do with patterns and group dynamics. Some people are stuck on individual opinions and behaviors instead of seeing how it results in group and structural dynamics.

[DaemonSeid]

Originally Posted by DrPhil

***
BluPhire, their response was a big load of bullshit. Silence on their part would've made more sense.

There is a reason why I put that in quotes...

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by DaemonSeid

There is a reason why I put that in quotes...

I'll believe it when I read it.

[DaemonSeid]

because, that's not all of her natural hair...if she wanted to capture the 'essence' of being African for a day, she should have rid herself of the fake hair.

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by DaemonSeid

because, that's not all of her natural hair...if she wanted to capture the 'essence' of being African for a day, she should have rid herself of the fake hair.

Hmmm...that assumes that African roots depend on our (hair) roots.

http://gayblackcanadianman.com/2010/...-independence/

Taking out the weave, going natural (assuming Beyonce isn't already natural), or wearing a head wrap would've been lovely. But, the blackface would've still been blackface.

[knight_shadow]

Originally Posted by DrPhil

Taking out the weave, going natural (assuming Beyonce isn't already natural), or wearing a head wrap would've been lovely. But, the blackface would've still been blackface.

I laughed at the bold, but I see what you're saying with this.

[BluPhire]

Originally Posted by DrPhil

It is definitely an issue and it is related to the issue of blackface. For instance, people like Reggae star Vybz Kartel who is so darn angry that some people are blasting him for whitening his skin. He looks insecure, ugly, and utterly ridiculous with his new skin.



(Not directed at BluPhire) One thing to understand is that the issue with blackface has to do with patterns and group dynamics. Some people are stuck on individual opinions and behaviors instead of seeing how it results in group and structural dynamics.

Yeah I definitely understand where you are coming from and when I read the statement I see they are taking the "artistic license" reasoning.

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by knight_shadow

I laughed at the bold, but I see what you're saying with this.

LOL.

Yeah, not every minority woman with "straighter" hair has a relaxer. There are other hair straigtheners.

[Munchkin03]

Originally Posted by DrPhil

It is definitely an issue and it is related to the issue of blackface. For instance, people like Reggae star Vybz Kartel who is so darn angry that some people are blasting him for whitening his skin. He looks insecure, ugly, and utterly ridiculous with his new skin.

He looks ill, as did Sammy Sosa. Is it that deep? I guess I could be considered "light-skinned," but in the 2000s, is it that deep to change your skin color to something completely ridiculous?

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by Munchkin03

He looks ill, as did Sammy Sosa. Is it that deep? I guess I could be considered "light-skinned," but in the 2000s, is it that deep to change your skin color to something completely ridiculous?

Yes, it is still that deep. Things aren't changing, people are just getting more "politically correct." The best way to see how things really are is to catch people when they don't think others are paying attention--or when people are angry (i.e. the last Presidential election).

So, if things aren't really changing, that will include color issues around the world. An example is how people praised Jennifer Lopez/Kim Kardashian for having "Black women's butts without the bad attitude, big stomachs, and nappy hair." An image of beauty is being presented that is "African Diasporic enough" to highlight the good things like big butts but "not too African Diasporic" so people don't have to deal with the browner skin, fuller features, thicker hair, etc (until it's Black History Month or time to pay homage to Africa and Fela Kuti---being Negroid definitely can't be a full-time job).

We see how some foolish bruthas go to other countries to find nonBlack Hispanic women and even Black Hispanic women (who are conveniently not Black just because they speak Spanish).

[DaemonSeid]

Hey, now...let's keep in mind that Kim BOUGHT her ass, J. Lo just insured hers...