Stan Johnson, an acclaimed fine arts photographer and author, premiered his latest and most evocative exhibition, Beautiful, I Am, at the Foster Tanner Fine Arts Building on the Florida A&M University (FAMU) campus. The exhibition, which runs until April 25, 2025, is a compelling series of portraits and stories highlighting the beauty, strength, and resilience of Black women, from infancy to nearly 100 years old.
A native of Quincy, Florida, Johnson was inspired to create Beautiful, I Am after delving into research on the challenges faced by young Black children regarding self-esteem and identity. His portraits feature women from all walks of life, spanning decades of lived experiences, and include their personal stories of overcoming societal expectations and embracing self-love.
A Celebration of Identity and Resilience
“I wanted to counter the societal narrative that undervalues Black beauty,” said Johnson at the exhibition’s premiere. “By sharing these intimate portraits and stories, I hope to inspire everyone—particularly Black women—to see themselves in a celebratory, affirming light.”
The event drew a diverse audience, from art enthusiasts to community leaders, who engaged with the powerful images and stories displayed throughout the gallery. The exhibition also included pieces from Johnson’s earlier project, Naked Emotions Exposed, further underscoring his dedication to telling stories that matter.
Details of the Exhibition
- Location: Foster Tanner Fine Arts Building, FAMU, Tallahassee, FL
- Dates: January 16, 2025 – April 25, 2025
- Opening Reception: January 16, 2025, 5 PM to 7 PM
The series aims to spark conversations about identity, inclusion, and the beauty of diversity, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the depth and vibrancy of the Black experience.
The Book: Beautiful, I Am
Alongside the exhibition, Johnson released an accompanying book of the same name. Beautiful, I Am! weaves together deeply personal narratives from Black women who redefine beauty on their own terms. Each story underscores the struggles and triumphs of self-acceptance and explores the varied definitions of beauty—whether short or tall, bald or curvy, or anywhere in between.
The book is available for purchase at Stan Johnson Creative, BookBaby, and select independent bookstores.
Why This Matters
Johnson’s dual projects—the exhibition and the book—are more than just artistic endeavors; they are cultural milestones. By amplifying the voices of underrepresented women, Johnson addresses critical conversations about self-worth and the importance of seeing oneself represented in an empowering light.
“This exhibition isn’t just about showcasing art,” said Johnson. “It’s about uplifting entire generations of women who have long been marginalized or misrepresented. My hope is that Beautiful, I Am! stands as a testament to the brilliance and depth within the Black community.”
About Stan Johnson
Stan Johnson’s artistic journey began in Quincy, Florida, where a camera gifted by his father ignited his passion for photography. A graduate of Florida A&M University, Johnson honed his craft as a U.S. Marine Corps communications specialist and later gained recognition for his heartfelt portraits of foster children. Today, his work continues to celebrate the resilience of marginalized communities.
For more information on Beautiful, I Am and Johnson’s ongoing projects, visit stanjohnsoncreative.com.
