Celebrating Black Creatives Yesterday, Today, and Always.
- Feb 24
- 3 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
The impact that Black culture has had in our day-to-day lives is truly one to be celebrated, this month and every month. From the technology that keeps us connected to major movements that have defined modern culture. Black inventors and creators have reshaped the world we live in through their resilience and genius.
Groundbreaking Pioneers In Black History
Before diving into some of our current team favorites, it's important to recognize those who paved the way throughout history.
Garret Morgan
How would our roads function if we did not have 3-light traffic signals? Garret Morgan is to thank for that. He also created the “safety hood” breathing device, which was considered the prototype of a gas mask. This invention saved countless lives during the early 20th Century.
Dr. Gladys West
Remember how excited we were when the first GPS came out? And then they started putting them in cars, and now they’re right in the palm of our hands. This luxury wouldn't have been possible without Dr. Gladys West’s contributions. Her complex calculations and models of the earth's shape were imperative to the development of GPS technology as we have known it and know it.
Augusta Savage
There was a time when major art institutions rarely showcased and included Black artists, especially Black women. Augusta Savage changed it by becoming the first Black woman elected to the National Association of Women Painters and Sculptors. She later led the Harlem Community Art Center, mentoring creatives during the Harlem Renaissance. Her work opened doors and shaped the future of so many young Black artists.
Some Of Our Current Favorites
Whether it’s in the visual arts or the literary and culinary worlds, Black excellence has no limits and continues to thrive with each generation of creators, artists, culinary masters, and entrepreneurs. Here are some of the ones inspiring our team this month.
Larry Stroman — Comic book creator
Ta-Nehisi Coates — New York Times best-selling author and graphic novel creator
BuddhaBlueCo — Handmade beaded and resin jewelry from Pennsylvania
Four Pegs — Award-winning barbecue from Louisville
Irie Illustrates — Specializing in full-color realism pieces
G+RIZZ™ — ART FOR HUMANS™ shopping and retail, based in Philly
Luster Gallery + Studio — Philly gallery featuring artists of color and queer and women artists
Chef Aziza Kibibi — Professional chef, nutritionist, and herbalist based in Philly
East Coast Calligraphy — Boutique for artists and writers in South Jersey
Philly Cheesecake Lady — Serving signature mini cheesecakes
Sources:
Everything we share here is meant to be helpful and inspiring. We’re speaking from experience and past proof of concept. We respect each other's works, cultures, and opinions. The trends, examples, and observations in this article are provided for educational and inspirational purposes only. Mentioned brands, businesses, and cultural references are not affiliated with or endorsing this content. Opinions on all subject matter, audience behavior, and strategies are general observations and may not apply to every audience or situation. Always consider your brand values, goals, and audience sensitivities before implementing changes or creating new visual content. Please consult a qualified professional when needed to help make decisions. You are responsible for how you choose to use this information, and we are not liable for any loss, damages, or issues that may arise. We can’t be responsible for how things play out, but we’re always rooting for your success!
Credits
Author: Sarah Dawoud
Editor: Jenn Hart (More About Me)
Associate Editor: Sarah Dawoud
Art: Olivia
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