Josephine Baker Exhibition in Berlin: A Groundbreaking Legacy of Dance and Activism

Step into the vivid world of the trailblazing dancer Josephine Baker, a woman whose extraordinary talent and determination shattered barriers and defied expectations in the world of dance and entertainment.

Born in 1906 in Missouri, Josephine Baker’s remarkable journey began in New York as a young teenager. Her exceptional dancing abilities caught the attention of many, leading her to the dazzling streets of Paris and a life-changing opportunity at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées.

At the tender age of 19, Baker made history with her electrifying performance in La Revue Nègre on October 2, 1925. This pivotal moment thrust her into the limelight, making her one of the few Black dancers to achieve national and international recognition in that era.

From there, Baker’s career soared to new heights as she became the most successful American entertainer in France. She even etched her name in history as the first Black woman to star in a major motion picture, the 1927 silent film ‘Siren of the Tropics’.

Baker’s influence extended beyond Paris to the grand stage in Berlin during the Revue Nègre’s tour. Her legacy as a symbol of the jazz age is currently being celebrated at the Neue Nationalgalerie in Berlin with a grand exhibition titled ‘Josephine Baker: Icon in Motion’.

This exclusive exhibition, which debuted on 26 January and will run until 28 April, pays homage to Baker’s artistry in dance, music, and film, as well as her crucial role as a civil rights activist and a transformative cultural figure. Curated by Dr. Mona Horncastle and film scholar Dr. Terri Francis, the exhibition showcases a stunning collection of photos, videos, and archival items from Baker’s extraordinary career.

The profound impact of Baker’s legacy is also evident in the works of historical and contemporary artists featured in the exhibition. From the esteemed names of Le Corbusier and Henri Matisse to the modern creatives like Faith Ringgold and Carrie Mae Weems, Josephine Baker’s influence on the arts is resoundingly clear.

As one of the pioneering Black artists to break into the mainstream arts world, Josephine Baker’s enduring impact on cinema, dance, music, and civil rights continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today. If you happen to find yourself in Berlin, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the gripping narrative of this iconic figure whose legacy continues to illuminate the world of entertainment and activism.