Toward a Black Aesthetic: Kenneth P. Green Sr.’s Photographs of the 1960s and 70s

As a lifetime Bay Area resident and the first Black staff photographer for the Oakland Tribune (1968-1982), Kenneth P. Green Sr. captured some of the most important social changes of the era. His photographs—some taken on the beat as a photojournalist and others snapped as an observant bystander on the streets—not only chronicled integral periods of sociopolitical importance, but also the quotidian moments of everyday life. Toward a Black Aesthetic focuses on Green’s images of Black women, whose strength, intellect and beauty he recognized and paid homage to through his photographs, which also highlight the fashion and politics of the 1960s and 70s. Visitors will also recognize in Green’s photographs the artistry in which he captured the multifaceted and organic expression of the Black community in the Bay Area. 

The exhibition continues on the 3rd Floor in the African American Center with Green’s vibrant documentary photographs of San Francisco’s African Liberation Day demonstration in 1972 shown alongside historical objects and ephemera from the event. 

Opening Reception

Thursday, January 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Jewett Gallery, Lower Level

Street Photography Tour and Walk with the Harvey Milk Photo Center  

Space is limited, registration required. 

Saturday, April 6, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Jewett Gallery, Lower Level