10 Black Creatives You Should Be Following, according to Cjala Surratt
The founder of Black Citizens Brigade’s thoughts
on what designers, activists, and artists should be on your radar.
Despite its overuse, the title of “tastemaker” is still a designation belonging to certain creatives— and Cjala Surratt is one of them.
As the founder of the Black Citizens Brigade, a storefront in downtown Syracuse dedicated to highlighting Black history through vintage clothing, books, and music, Surratt, an SU grad and the former Director of Marketing for Light Work, is a master of thoughtful curation. Nestled into an alleyway downtown, Black Citizens Brigade is a physical love letter to Black culture, with each item in the store representing a unique piece of history.
From vintage copies of James Baldwin novels to lookbooks highlighting the African Diaspora, the inventory of Black Citizens Brigade is a treasure trove of goods made accessible by Surratt’s discerning eye.
In celebration of Black History Month, ZIPPED asked Surratt to lend us that keen eye by curating a list of Black creatives who should be on your radar. Check out her picks, written in her own words, below.
CARRIE MAE WEEMS
Renowned photographer and artist Carrie Mae Weems, who also happens to be a current Syracuse University artist-in-residence, has garnered international acclaim for her profound explorations of race, gender, and identity in her evocative body of work. Through her lens, she delves deep into the complexities of societal constructs, challenging viewers to confront ingrained biases and reevaluate prevailing narratives.
SHARIF BEY
As an accomplished ceramic artist, Sharif Bey's creations transcend mere functional objects, embodying cultural narratives and personal expressions within each meticulously crafted piece. Bey, who is also a professor at SU, takes an innovative approach to pottery and sculpture, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics and resulting in artworks that resonate on multiple levels. Bey's incorporation of cultural motifs not only celebrates diverse heritage but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge cultural divides and foster deeper connections within communities.
LONDON LADD
Award-winning illustrator London Ladd's work in children's literature goes beyond mere visual storytelling, as he skillfully captures the essence of diverse stories and experiences with vivid emotion and depth. Through his illustrations, Ladd, who is an SU alum, brings characters to life in a way that resonates with readers of all ages, fostering empathy and understanding across cultural boundaries.
AURORA JAMES
A visionary fashion designer and passionate activist, Aurora James rose to prominence for her groundbreaking initiative, the "15 Percent Pledge." Recognizing the systemic lack of representation of Black-owned businesses in retail, James founded the pledge as a call to action for major retailers to commit at least 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. Beyond her advocacy work, James continues to make waves in the fashion world with her own brand, which champions sustainability, ethical practices, and cultural diversity in every collection.
ANTWUAN SARGENT
Esteemed art critic and curator, Antwuan Sargent, has garnered widespread recognition for his insightful commentary and curation within the contemporary art world, extending his influence into the fashion space. Through his compelling writings and exhibitions, Sargent offers nuanced perspectives on issues of race, identity, and representation, shaping discourse and trends within the fashion industry. With a keen eye for emerging talent and a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, he continues to bridge gaps between artists, designers, and fashion institutions, amplifying underrepresented voices in both art and fashion.
STELLA JEAN
Italian-Haitian fashion designer Stella Jean has earned global acclaim for her bold and vibrant aesthetic, which celebrates cultural diversity and promotes ethical fashion practices. With a unique blend of Italian craftsmanship and Haitian heritage, Jean's designs are a fusion of colors, patterns, and textures that reflect her commitment to inclusivity and social justice. Beyond the runway, Jean actively engages in advocacy initiatives to support artisans from marginalized communities, championing fair labor practices and sustainable production methods.
SHEILA BRIDGES
Renowned interior designer and television personality Sheila Bridges has made an indelible mark on the design world with her signature blend of sophistication and eclecticism. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for cultural heritage, Bridges seamlessly combines traditional and contemporary elements to create spaces that are both timeless and dynamic. Her distinctive style has garnered a loyal following among clients and enthusiasts alike, earning her accolades and accolades across the industry.
JASON JULES
Jason Jules, an influential cultural commentator and style curator, is pivotal in shaping fashion, music, and art trends and discourse. With an astute understanding of cultural movements and a discerning eye for emerging talent, Jules has established himself as a tastemaker and thought leader in the creative world. Through his writings, public appearances, and collaborations, he navigates the intersection of culture and commerce, providing invaluable insights and perspectives that challenge conventional wisdom and inspire innovation.
JAY JAXON
Jay Jaxon, a visionary fashion executive and staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, has dedicated his career to fostering emerging talent from marginalized backgrounds and reshaping the landscape of the fashion industry. With a keen focus on equity and representation, Jaxon has worked tirelessly to dismantle barriers to entry for underrepresented designers, providing platforms and resources to amplify their voices and showcase their talent globally. Through initiatives such as mentorship programs and fashion incubators, he empowers aspiring creatives to pursue their dreams and navigate the industry's complexities with confidence and resilience.
WILLI SMITH
Willi Smith, the iconic late fashion designer, remains a trailblazing figure in the industry, celebrated for his pioneering streetwear brand and inclusive vision that challenged the norms of high fashion. With a keen understanding of urban culture and a knack for innovation, Smith revolutionized the fashion landscape with his accessible yet avant-garde designs that resonated with a diverse audience. Breaking down barriers of race, class, and gender, his brand epitomized the democratization of style, paving the way for a new era of inclusive fashion. Smith's enduring legacy continues to inspire designers and creatives worldwide, reminding us of the transformative power of fashion to reflect and shape society's ever-evolving values and aspirations.