There's No Competition

Motley Jr. was no stranger to depicting the experiences of American life, especially the experiences of African Americans. Alternatively known by its considerably shorter name, ‘The First One Hundred Years’ is a clear example of this. His identity, especially his own racial identity and the relations around him, was a common theme which he explored throughout his body of work. ‘The First One Hundred Years’ is a clear depiction of the grief and anger he felt seeing this horrible side of history. The fact that he spent near a decade working on this piece is telling.

Hot Rhythm, 1961, by Archibald J. Motley Jr. (1891-1981)

57 jazz musicians gathered in front of a Harlem brownstone at 17 East 126th Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenue

l went from selling clothes on a table on the sidewalks of Harlem, now l’m on my own giant billboard on a rooftop in Harlem. l went from having holes in my shoes as a child, now l wear @gucci loafers. l came from the poorest neighborhood in Harlem, now l have a brownstone in Harlem. l never had a desire to move away and be by the rich people, now they are moving by me. l always believed in me and l always believed in Harlem—and l thank GOD for that.

Streets of Harlem: West 118th Street between Lenox Ave. and Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd. in Harlem, upper Manhattan

new toy

i gained a little weight but i’m kinda liking it:)

A sign of the times. For the first time in history, a major luxury brand store has opened in Harlem: @Gucci by Dapper Dan. With made-to-order garments for your taste and in your specific measurements, I will create your design from your mind, or come up with a design for you. I’ll also have limited edition ready-to-wear items and accessories available for purchase, by appointment only.

Read here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/luxury/mens-style/dapper-dan-interview-gucci-collaboration-harlem-style/