BAIA Talks Exclusive With Iconic Designer Ruth E. Carter

Interviewed by Jamaal Barber and Tracy Ann Simmonds

 

  • Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter is an expert storyteller who harnesses the power of visual communication to share vital narratives exploring culture, race, and politics. Creating costumes for generation- defining films like Black Panther, Selma, and Do the Right Thing, she brings vibrancy, nuance, color, and texture to each of her culture-shifting characters.
  • SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film in Atlanta has more than 60 costumes by Carter currently on view through September 12, as well as sketches and ephemera illustrating the designer’s in-depth historical research and creative process for each project.
  • The Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibition at SCAD FASH features unforgettable designs from nearly four decades of her career within an Afrofuturistic installation incorporating original artwork by SCAD illustration alumnus Brandon Sadler, whose work was prominently featured in Black Panther. Inspired by African masks and Nigerian textiles, Sadler’s work for the exhibition connects Carter’s celebrated costume designs across various time periods and themes within the overarching concept of Afrofuturism. For more information on the exhibition and to plan your visit, go to scadfash.org.
  • On Wednesday March 24 at 6pm, Ruth E. Carter will participate in the university’s signature annual event titled SCADstyle. This marks the first time all of the SCADstyle programming will be virtual for audiences to enjoy around the world. Carter will share the stories behind the costumes in the exhibition. For more information on SCADstyle and Carter‘s conversation go to scad.edu/scadstyle.