'Paris Noir': A cultural crossroads for Black artists • FRANCE 24 English

The Cultural Crossroads of Paris

The Unique Multicultural Scene

• Paris served as a revolutionary meeting point for artists and intellectuals from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas during the post-war period.

• The concept of "negritude" and "creoless" emerged as part of exploring black identity in this vibrant cultural scene.

Influences on Jazz Musicians

• Josiah Woodson reflects on his journey to Paris, acknowledging the legacy left by African-American artists like James Baldwin and Miles Davis.

• He emphasizes a strong connection to the African diaspora in Paris, which has broadened his musical horizons significantly.

Historical Significance of Venues

• The Belier Cabaret opened in 1924, initially catering to a large Caribbean community and later becoming known as Bal Negra.

• This venue became a hub for Afro-Caribbean music, reflecting the diverse influences that shaped Paris's jazz scene.

Reception of Jazz Artists

• Notable African-American performers such as Josephine Baker and Louis Armstrong found acceptance in France, where they were celebrated as true artists rather than mere entertainers.

• French audiences recognized jazz as a legitimate art form distinct from classical music, fostering respect for its musicians.

Impact on Black Culture

• The rise of jazz integrated black artists into Paris's cultural fabric while also highlighting issues faced by black individuals from France’s overseas colonies.

• Kivid Duna initiated Black Paris walking tours to illuminate lesser-known aspects of this history, starting with figures like Alexandre Dumas.

Racism and Artistic Freedom

Historical Context of Racism

• Alexandre Dumas was described using racially charged terms despite his success; he faced scrutiny regarding his race throughout his life.

James Baldwin's Experience

• Baldwin fled racial tensions in America seeking creative freedom in Paris; he felt that racism hindered his ability to write effectively.

• His admiration for Baldwin is evident; Woodson expresses how Baldwin’s experiences resonate with him personally.

Ongoing Challenges

• While some African-Americans find refuge in Paris from systemic racism, challenges persist. Woodson notes that police harassment still exists but may be less frequent than in the U.S.

Critique of Racism

• Baldwin was an outspoken critic against racism globally. He acknowledged his privilege compared to those he met from French colonies while advocating for equality.

Exploring the Legacy of Black Artists in France

The Colonial Context and Reception

• American passports provided a warm welcome for James Baldwin, yet he candidly critiqued France's colonial history, referring to its past as "your slaves."

Emergence of Pan-African Consciousness

• Influenced by writers like Plet Nardal and Emel, a pan-African consciousness began to take shape, reflecting a collective identity among black communities.

Historical Significance of the 1956 Congress

• A pivotal moment occurred in September 1956 at the Sorbonne during the first international congress of black writers and artists, organized by the presence African bookshop. This event gathered intellectuals globally to discuss decolonization and Africa's future.

Cultural Awareness and Artistic Expression

• The Pininoa exhibition at the Pompidou Center aims to enlighten Parisians about their city's diverse heritage, showcasing how global influences shaped contemporary Parisian culture.

• The exhibition presents works from black artists during significant social changes in the late 20th century, envisioning a post-colonial future rooted in the legacy of slavery and colonization.

Personal Narratives Through Art

• Valerie John, originally from Martinique, describes Paris as an artistic cradle where many sought higher education. Her work reflects personal stories tied to identity and independence.

• Artist Kokuray’s painting "Lusi" captures his incarceration due to pro-independence activism around May '68, illustrating both personal struggle and artistic resilience.

Art as Resistance

• Valerie John creates art through weaving paper into objects she calls her "book of secrets," viewing her creative process as an act of resistance against historical oppression faced by her people.

Expanding Collections at Pompidou Center

• The Pompidou Center has established a fund aimed at acquiring modern art pieces that represent overlooked narratives within French art history, including works by African-American artists and those from France's overseas territories.