The verb “to flex” essentially has one of two meanings. It can mean to show off, to gloat, or to boast—which is the most popular definition of the word. However, it can also mean to put on a fake front, to fake it, or force it. The second definition is usually used in conjunction with the first—as in, someone who’s gloating about something that they’ve really got no right to gloat about, lying about an accomplishment, or exaggerating the truth.
Kennedi Carter (b. 1998) explores ideas of Blackness related to wealth, power, respect, and belonging in her new series of photographs. Carter dressed friends and acquaintances in historically-inspired costumes that represent wealth and power. History is referenced, rejected, and reimagined. The images compel us to ask questions: How can looking back in time move me forward? Who and what represents wealth? Does money mean respect? Where do I fit? What assumptions do I make based on appearance? Who is flexing? What is underneath wealth and power? What makes me feel seen? Where do I belong?
From What Does “Flex” Mean In Slang? Or, Why Both “No Flex Zones” and “Flex Friendly Zones” Are Necessary By Mehak Anwar, Bustle
Artist Bios
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Kennedi Carter
A Durham, North Carolina native by way of Dallas, Texas, Kennedi Carter is a fine art photographer and creative director with a primary focus on Black subjects. Her work highlights the aesthetics and sociopolitical aspects of Blackness as well as the overlooked beauties of the Black experience: skin, texture, trauma, peace, love, and community. Her work aims to reinvent notions of creativity and confidence in the realm of Blackness.
Organizations
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Photoville
Founded in 2011 in Brooklyn, NY, Photoville was built on the principles of addressing cultural equity and inclusion, which we are always striving for, by ensuring that the artists we exhibit are diverse in gender, class, and race.
In pursuit of its mission, Photoville produces an annual, city-wide open air photography festival in New York City, a wide range of free educational community initiatives, and a nationwide program of public art exhibitions.
By activating public spaces, amplifying visual storytellers, and creating unique and highly innovative exhibition and programming environments, we join the cause of nurturing a new lens of representation.
Through creative partnerships with festivals, city agencies, and other nonprofit organizations, Photoville offers visual storytellers, educators, and students financial support, mentorship, and promotional & production resources, on a range of exhibition opportunities.
For more information about Photoville visit, www.photoville.com
Flex
Featuring: Kennedi Carter
Locations
View Location Details Old Fulton Street and Prospect StreetOld Fulton Street and Prospect Street
DUMBO, Brooklyn 11201
This location is part of Brooklyn Bridge Park
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