From Paris to Atlanta: Du Bois’ radical portrait of Black life returns

ATLANTA — At a time when racist caricatures dominated media and public opinion, W.E.B. Du Bois curated hundreds of photographs showing Black individuals professionally dressed, educated, and thriving. 

But his exhibit went beyond portraits. 

Working alongside students from Atlanta University, he incorporated maps, charts, and infographics to document the economic and social progress of Black Americans after emancipation—despite systemic racism.

“Du Bois was very, very particular in the ways in which he told the story and the ways in which he presented Black people and Black life,” said Fahamu Pecou, executive director of the African Diaspora Art Museum. “He also understood the power of art … to tell stories beyond numbers and language.”

More than a century later, that mission is being revived and reimagined in Atlanta. The museum’s latest exhibit pairs Du Bois’ original work with contemporary images of Black Atlantans—business owners, students, community figures, and professionals—who reflect the same spirit of progress and resilience.

Among those featured is George T. French Jr., president of Clark Atlanta University. According to Pecou, “Dr. French is a student of Du Bois … and has based much of his educational philosophy on Du Bois’ work.”

The exhibit also highlights everyday excellence, from Atlanta’s well-known “water boys” to highly educated women and local entrepreneurs. These modern representations echo Du Bois’ original goal: to dismantle stereotypes and present a fuller, more accurate picture of Black life.

“This is important because it continues to dispel many of the myths that exist around Black culture,” Pecou explained.

Du Bois’ work at the 1900 World’s Fair earned him a gold medal, but its true legacy lies in its lasting impact. Today, his message remains clear and powerful: telling your own story is an act of resistance—and a path toward reshaping history.

The exhibit at the African Diaspora Art Museum runs through May 8.