Carl Van Vechten and the Harlem Renaissance

Carl Van Vechten was a famous photographer who had a passion for all things African-American. The Dutch artist moved to Harlem in the early 20th century, just at a time when African-Americans were moving into that historic community. He soon established a relationship with many artists in Harlem.

Van Vechten moved to Harlem as an opportune time, when the Harlem Renaissance was just beginning. He soon opened a studio in Upper Manhattan, where he was inviting artists to come up and become portraits for him.

Blues singer Bessie Smith at an unknown location in February 1936. (Photo by Carl Van Vechten)

1. Bessie Smith

Bessie Smith, also known as the "Empress of the Blues", was a pioneering vocalist who was influential to countless jazz and blues performers. She was the first of the "Blues Shouters", who had perfect pitch and a powerful voice, which was used in many songs which became blues standards. Her most famous pieces were done with a group of jazz musicians in New York, under the credit of producer John Hammond back in 1933. She became friends with Carl Van Vechten during that time, which led to this photo being taken.