Past, Present, and Tomorrow: Our Expression of Harmony and Celebration

Shawn Hart, Howard University Alumna Exhibits Josephine Baker–Inspired Works at Children’s National Hospital

As a proud Howard University alumnus and Washington, DC artist, I am honored to be part of the exhibition Past, Present, and Tomorrow: Our Expressions of Harmony and Celebration, currently on view at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC through May 1, 2026. This special exhibition brings together artists whose work celebrates cultural history, artistic expression, and creative vision in a space dedicated to healing and hope.

I am excited to present four original works inspired by the life, legacy, and artistic influence of Josephine Baker—an international icon, performer, and pioneer whose story continues to inspire generations. These works reflect my journey as both a fashion illustrator and graphic designer, while honoring themes of history, empowerment, and artistic evolution.

Josephine Stylin' in Sarlat: Fashion Illustration Inspired by 1920s Poster Art

My first work, Josephine Stylin' in Sarlat, reflects my passion for fashion illustration and vintage poster design. This piece draws inspiration from the bold visual style of 1920s poster artist Paul Colin, whose work helped define the era of Art Deco performance and fashion. Through stylized composition and expressive movement, I reimagine Josephine Baker as both a fashion icon and cultural symbol.

This work connects the past to the present by honoring the golden age of fashion illustration while reintroducing its elegance to contemporary audiences.

Fly Jo: Celebrating Josephine Baker’s Courage and Aviation Legacy

My second work, Fly Jo, was inspired by Josephine Baker’s groundbreaking achievements as one of the first African American women to pilot an airplane. At a time when many African Americans were denied basic access to aviation, her accomplishments represented courage, freedom, and progress.

I often incorporate historic photographic references in my work to create a sense of authenticity and connection to the past. In this piece, I included imagery inspired by Josephine Baker’s castle, symbolizing both her personal success and the heights she achieved despite adversity.

This artwork celebrates empowerment, determination, and breaking barriers—values that remain deeply relevant today.

Flamingo Jo: Reimagining Josephine Baker Through Color and Playfulness

Flamingo Jo represents a playful reinterpretation of Josephine Baker’s stage persona. Known for her iconic costumes featuring feathers and dramatic fashion, I transformed her figure into elegant flamingos, symbolizing grace, beauty, and performance.

This piece was also created with young viewers in mind, recognizing that the exhibition takes place within Children’s National Hospital. The vibrant colors and imaginative forms invite children and families to connect with the artwork in a joyful and accessible way.

This work bridges historical tribute with contemporary creativity, making Josephine Baker’s legacy approachable for a new generation.

Jazz Jo: Graphic Design, Jazz Culture, and the Future of My Artistic Direction

My final work, Jazz Jo, represents the future direction of my work and reflects my identity as a graphic designer. Using a monochromatic color scheme, abstract shapes, and bold composition, I captured the energy and rhythm of a jazz nightclub scene.

This piece moves beyond literal representation and explores visual storytelling through abstraction, contrast, and form. Jazz, like visual art, is built on harmony, improvisation, and emotional expression—making it the perfect symbol for artistic evolution.

This work represents where my creative journey is headed, combining fine art, graphic design, and cultural storytelling.

Howard University Artist Honoring Legacy, Culture, and Creative Expression

Participating in Past, Present, and Tomorrow: Our Expressions of Harmony and Celebration is especially meaningful to me as a Howard University graduate and Washington, DC artist. Howard University has long been a center of artistic excellence and cultural leadership, and it continues to inspire my work today.

This exhibition reflects the power of art to connect the past, present, and future—honoring cultural icons like Josephine Baker while exploring new creative directions.

Visit the Exhibition at Children’s National Hospital in

Washington, DC

I invite you to experience this exhibition in person at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. The show will be on view through May 1, 2026.

It is my hope that these works will inspire viewers of all ages and demonstrate how art can celebrate history, encourage imagination, and create harmony within our communities.

Location: Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DCExhibition Title: Past, Present, and Tomorrow: Our Expressions of Harmony and CelebrationOn View Through: May 1, 2026.

Exciting News!: BBS Exhibiting in Two Galleries on the East Coast

Art is often described as a personal journey, and each exhibition tells a story of an artist's evolution. This year, I am thrilled to share that my artwork is currently displayed in two galleries on the East Coast – one in Washington, D.C., and the other in New Jersey. This opportunity not only allows me to connect with a broader audience but also presents a unique chance to reflect on my artistic journey and the themes that resonate within my work.

The Gallery in Washington, D.C. - Arena Stage

I am excited to be a part of a group exhibition at the historic Arena Stage! This is the first ever curated art show to be held in this space. The show, titled "'The Evidence of Things Now Seen" features artworks by Black Artists of DC ( BADC) and Tres Raices. As a member of BADC I am delighted to show my work along with these talented and experienced artists!

My work "Aircrafts, Castles, Cars and Couture" embraces theme of the show which celebrates James Baldwin who "celebrated the beauty and richness of Black life. As an artist-observer, he named truths actively ignored. The artists explore themes such as belonging. equality, legacy, liberation, love, and joy, pushing boundaries and envisioning a world that affords respect for all.

My work

Both Josephine Baker and James Baldwin left the United States for France, where they found greater personal and artistic freedom.  “Aircrafts, Castles, Cars and Couture” was inspired by a trip to France where I photographed  the  castle which was Baker’s home.  Josephine learned to drive a car and to fly a plane at a time when many  people of color could not even travel in one. My illustration of  Baker is positioned to depict  her as a chic woman of style who has arrived.  James Baldwin also lived in the South of France.  His fashion style was about presence and dignity in a world that tried to deny it to a Black man.  Paris gave both Baker and Baldwin the space to perform, write  and be  unapologetically themselves.

This show will be on view until June 27, 2025. Artist talk on June 11th 6:30-7:30

Arena Stage 1101 Sixth Street SW Washington, DC

The Gallery in New Jersey

In contrast, my exhibition in New Jersey is a show comprised of artists from many different areas. The show is titled "Another Slice of Sweet Potato Pie" at the Atrium Gallery, in Morristown, New Jersey.

My work

I'm thrilled to share that my piece "Diva of Dance" has been selected for exhibition! This vibrant, colorful work on canvas is one of my most iconic interpretations to date. Inspired by Josephine Baker’s legendary banana skirt, the rendering adds a layer of elegance that reclaims and redefines the image—highlighting Baker’s triumph over the often savage stereotypes she transcended.

I’d love for you to join me at the public opening reception on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Come celebrate art, history, and bold expression!

Aircrafts, Castles, Cars & Couture

Diva of DaAnce

Conclusion

In conclusion, exhibiting my artwork in two galleries—one in Washington, D.C., and the other in New Jersey—has been an enlightening experience that reinforces the multifaceted nature of art. Each location offers its unique voice, enriching my narrative as an artist and enhancing my connection with the audience.

In the end, it’s the interaction and dialogue sparked by art that truly elevates the experience of being an artist. Here’s to more exhibitions, more connections, and an ever-expanding exploration of what it means to create.

How Josephine Baker Shaped the Spectacle of Black Elegance on Fashion's Biggest Night

The Essence of Dandyism

What do a well-tailored suit, walking stick, and top hat have in common? What about pearls, a well-placed brooch, a pocket watch, a parasol, and a pair of lace gloves?

Answer: They are all elements of a dandy.

This year, the Met Gala’s theme was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, with a focus on Black dandyism. While everyone has an opinion on who “understood the assignment,” forming a well-informed view requires an understanding of the concept’s rich history.

The Origins and Evolution of the Dandy

Dandyism is a cultural and stylistic phenomenon rooted in 18th- and 19th-century Europe, particularly in England and France. Among marginalized groups, it became a tool to assert visibility, pride, and resistance through fashion.

The spirit of the dandy lives on in:

   •   Zoot suits, African prints, and classic pinstripes

   •   Iconic figures like Josephine Baker, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and James Baldwin, who all recognized fashion as a form of power and identity.

   •   Even fictional portrayals, such as Jamie Foxx’s character in Django, reflect the symbolic liberation that comes with style—donning a velvet jacket and dressing like a free man.

Historical Influences

   •   Julius Soubise: A formerly enslaved man in 18th-century England known for his flamboyant dress and ties to British aristocracy.

   •   The Harlem Renaissance: Figures like Duke Ellington and Langston Hughes embraced elegant tailoring, blending European fashion with Black cultural expression.

   •   Zoot Suiters (1940s): Their exaggerated silhouettes symbolized resistance and cultural pride among Black and Latino youth.

Josephine Baker: The Original Black Female Dandy

Josephine Baker embodied the essence of the Black female dandy, both on and off stage. Known for her flamboyant performance costumes, she also embraced sleek, modern, gender-defying fashion in her personal life.

She was:

   •   A superstar who dazzled French audiences

   •   A political force who supported the French Resistance and the U.S. civil rights movement

   •   An inspiration to modern-day Black dandies like Janelle Monáe and Tracee Ellis Ross who represent the ongoing tradition of stylish resistance

Their fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about power, presence, and reclaiming visibility in elite spaces.

A Tribute to André Leon Talley

Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour dedicated this year’s gala theme to her late friend, André Leon Talley—a towering figure in fashion who broke barriers as the first Black creative director at Vogue in 1988. A modern-day dandy himself, Talley epitomized style, elegance, and unapologetic Black excellence.

Notably:

   •   This was only the second Met Gala to focus on menswear

   •   It was the first time the Black man was the central theme

Josephine Baker’s Influence on the 2025 Met Gala

Countless blogs and articles have analyzed this year’s red carpet looks, but our lens—as curators of Josephine Baker’s style and influence—offers a fresh perspective.

Baker was the most-cited inspiration by celebrities. Even when not mentioned by name, her influence was evident:

   •   Pin curls on Gigi Hadid

   •   Finger waves on Serena Williams and others (aka the famous “S” curl)

   •   Alicia Keys wore a beaded headpiece reminiscent of Baker

   •   Megan Thee Stallion embraced a Josephine-inspired ponytail and

silhouette, proving she too understood the assignment

Josephine’s legacy lives on through the details: tailoring, fit, and elegance rooted in Black dandyism.

Female Celebrities Channeling Josephine Baker

Celebrity/ Designer/Josephine Baker Influence:

Dua Lipa Chanel Hairstyle inspired by JB

Gigi Hadid Miu Miu JB pin curls

FKA Twigs Wales Bonner JB Clothing Style

Tracee EllisRoss Marc Jacobs Clthing Style referenced JB

Megan Thee Stallion Michael Kors JB Clothing and Hairstyle

Halle Bailey — Credits JB as a trailblazings inspirationn

Quinta Brunson — Hairstyle

Serena Williams — Hairstyle JB finger waves

The Men: Modern-Day Dandies

This year’s co-chairs brought dandyism to life on the Met steps:

Pharrell Williams

   •   Co-chair and Louis Vuitton Menswear Creative Director

   •   Wore a bespoke pearl pinstripe blazer (100,000 pearls; 980 hours to craft)

Colman Domingo

   •   Stunned in custom Valentino by Alessandro Michele

   •   Styled by Wayman + Micah

Lewis Hamilton

   •   Wore an ivory suit with high-waisted tuxedo-striped trousers

   •   Featured an embroidered sash with cowrie shells and mother-of-pearl, honoring African heritage

A$AP Rocky

   •   Wore a custom piece by AWGE and stylist Matthew Henson

   •   Paid tribute to Harlem fashion, including iconic Marmot jackets

An Historic Night

The 2025 Met Gala made history by raising a record-breaking $31 million for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute—the highest total in the event’s 77-year history.