The opening reception of the new Gordon Parks exhibition at Pace Gallery vividly reminded me of the first time I encountered his photography. I can’t recall the when and where of the exact moment, but I distinctly remember the sensation…

On a recent July night, RM47 lit up South Central Los Angeles with their infectious track “Buss It,” making a strong case for song of the summer. The audience's electric reaction suggested that Raleigh and MAAD were seasoned 90s veterans performing a cult classic, rather than millennial stars presenting a track released in May.

Even during golden hour, the stunning panoramic Los Angeles views just couldn’t compete with the rich medley of melanin and style. We’d been invited to celebrate Black visual culture with the center’s African American Art History Institute (AAAHI) and—I’m so sorry to be that person, but—we clearly understood the assignment.