Tyler Mitchell’s first monograph is an ode to Black freedom

Tyler Mitchell, a renowned American photographer known for his work including photographing Beyonce for Vogue US, has released his first monograph titled _I Can Make You Feel Good_. This book compiles his work from recent years, focusing on themes of Black freedom, leisure, aspirations, and recreation. Mitchell intentionally designed the book to deviate from conventional art book structures, featuring uncaptioned, full-bleed images without a strict chronological or hierarchical arrangement. This approach aims to fully immerse the reader in the world he creates, emphasizing an equal value for each image. The title of the monograph, inspired by a Shalamar song, directly communicates Mitchell's artistic intention and the profound importance of his work. The book includes approximately 100 vibrant, colorful, and saturated images, occasionally interspersed with abstract close-ups and solid color blocks. Beyond the visual content, the monograph features an introduction by Mitchell himself and four essays from influential art theorists who have supported his professional and creative development. Mirjam Kooiman, curator at the Foam Photography Museum in Amsterdam where Mitchell also had a solo exhibition of the same name, contributes an essay that explores the critical significance of Black artists creating and circulating images of Black bodies. Her essay begins with a powerful quote from Frederick Douglass, highlighting the historical use of self-representation by Black American men to demand moral recognition and elicit empathy. Isolde Brielmaier provides a formal analysis of Mitchell’s photography, encouraging readers to consider the power found in everyday moments. Deborah Willis, Mitchell’s former photography professor at NYU, discusses how the absence of certain narratives has motivated Mitchell's creative output. Mitchell's initial inspiration stemmed from images of carefree youth he encountered on Tumblr as a teenager, which depicted young people enjoying themselves without anxiety or stress. He sought to center a new protagonist within this narrative, believing in the power of the imaginary, especially the Black imagination, as a significant force. An interview with curator Hans Ulrich Obrist at the end of the book showcases the fluid nature of Mitchell’s practice, which spans fashion, art, and film. Mitchell stresses the role of imagination in creating new realities and expanding the possibilities for Black youth. The photographs in _I Can Make You Feel Good_ are drawn from Mitchell's extensive career, encompassing work from high-fashion magazines, personal projects, and commissioned pieces. These images transport viewers into a world where young Black individuals can freely play, explore without limitations, and express affection without fear of judgment. Mitchell's vision serves as a comfort against the chronic exhaustion and systemic challenges often faced by the Black community. The characters in his work are genuinely carefree, existing for themselves and their community. Instances include figures relaxing in a yin-yang position with scattered gummy bears, symbolizing abundance, and others dressed formally but at ease on a picnic blanket, suggesting that public rest is normal for them. The book also captures Black youth engaged in nostalgic activities like hula-hooping, dancing, swinging, jump-roping, and skateboarding. While not his first publication, _I Can Make You Feel Good_ is presented as Mitchell's most crucial and beautiful work to date, offering a vision of Black Elysium that merges past, present, and future, providing a much-needed escape from contemporary struggles. #TylerMitchell #Photography #BlackFreedom #ArtMonograph #Utopia #VisualArt #YouthCulture #ContemporaryPhotography #TylerMitchell #Photography #BlackFreedom #ArtMonograph #Utopia #VisualArt #YouthCulture #ContemporaryPhotography