The Sentinels

Val Juma

In the world of fashion and media, representation remains a critical issue, especially for more mature, darker-skinned individuals who are often overlooked. This disparity served as the inspiration behind “Sentinels in Pastel,” a unique and visionary project that merges surrealism with realism to showcase the beauty and power of older Black models based in London.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has often been the go-to source for envisioning mature, dark-skinned models due to the lack of real-world representation. “Sentinels in Pastel” seeks to disrupt this trend by spotlighting real people, thus bridging the gap between fantasy and reality.

We embarked on this project with a mission to highlight real individuals, crafting a fantastical narrative that features models older than the industry standard. Crafted and styled by the talented Julius Reuben, the photoshoot incorporated childlike objects as a juxtaposition to the models’ maturity. This contrast, using pastel colours typically associated with babies, created a striking visual dialogue between youth and age, emphasising common ground despite the age difference.

In many African, Afro-Caribbean, and diasporic households, the mature generation holds a place of deep respect and love. They are seen as powerful sentinels, guardians of wisdom and tradition. “Sentinels in Pastel” challenges the media’s general disregard for the older generation by celebrating their strength and influence.

The models featured in this project challenge the prevailing media narrative that often ignores the mature generation. Through my lens, these individuals are not just models but embodiments of resilience and grace, reflecting the richness of their lived experiences.

Getting to know each model personally was a crucial part of this journey. Their strengths, personalities, and vibrant energy deeply influenced the personas they portrayed in the shoot. This personal connection allowed us to create more authentic and powerful representations.

Each model’s persona was enhanced with facial tribal painting and symbolism, expertly executed by Keisha Desvignes. This artistic choice not only highlighted their individuality but also immersed them in an Afrofuturistic narrative, bridging cultural heritage with contemporary expression.

We also utilised backgrounds that matched the colours of the garments worn by the models. This choice was culturally significant, as it symbolised harmony and unity, reflecting the seamless blend of the models’ identities with the Afrofuturistic vision. It emphasised the idea that the models were not just wearing the clothes but embodying a cohesive cultural and aesthetic narrative.

As a British African photographer shooting Afrofuturism globally, this project holds a special place in my heart. It presents a vision of the future where the richness of African heritage is celebrated, and older generations are given the spotlight they deserve.

“Sentinels in Pastel” is not just a fashion project; it’s a cultural statement. It speaks to the African diaspora’s experience, blending traditional respect for elders with a futuristic vision that challenges contemporary norms. It invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of age, beauty, and cultural significance.

From a diaspora viewpoint, this project is a reminder of the strength and resilience that older generations embody. It underscores the importance of representation in all its forms, advocating for a more inclusive and diverse portrayal in media and fashion.

Ultimately, “Sentinels in Pastel” is a call for inclusivity. It urges the fashion industry and media to recognise and celebrate the beauty and power of older, darker-skinned individuals. By doing so, we can create a more representative and equitable world that honours all ages and backgrounds.

“Sentinels in Pastel” stands as a testament to the enduring strength and grace of the mature Black community. It’s a vibrant, Afrofuturistic homage to those who have paved the way, reminding us all of the importance of inclusivity and representation in every realm of society.