In 2018, the movement for social justice has intensified, and art stands at the forefront of activism. More brands are stepping up with the goal of reshaping societal narratives. One such brand is Black on Black, a clothing and accessory line founded in Brooklyn, New York, by the visionary artist and designer, Marcus Cole. The mission behind Black on Black is to spark meaningful conversations about race, led by the black community, while working to dismantle the systems of oppression that affect them.
Inclusivity is a core principle of this brand, with a collection designed for allies as well, making it clear that the message extends beyond just the black community. The concept of intersectionality is central to their vision, emphasizing that true progress can only be achieved when diverse identities are acknowledged and uplifted. So please, refrain from flooding the comments with concerns about exclusion; the goal is unity and understanding.
I spoke with Cole to delve deeper into the essence of Black on Black—its origins, significance, and the change he hopes to inspire for his daughters through clothing and creativity. Instead of a singular moment of inspiration, the brand emerged from years of frustration regarding how mainstream media and advertising portray the black experience. By designing his own clothing, Cole aims to reclaim the narrative, promoting a message of self-love and pride.
Cole identifies as an “ARTivist,” emphasizing the importance of art in conveying messages of empowerment and hope. “My work reflects the ideals of self-empowerment and the elusive ‘American Dream.’ Over the years, I’ve realized that not everyone has equal access to that dream, and those who struggle often look like me,” he explains.
With two daughters of mixed heritage, Cole is determined to foster their self-esteem and pride in their identities amidst a world that can be unkind to people of color. One of the children’s shirts proudly declares, “I AM the New Black,” giving young black kids—especially those with biracial backgrounds—a sense of pride in their heritage. As a black mother of a biracial child myself, I would definitely consider purchasing this shirt to celebrate my son’s cultural roots.
Black on Black offers a diverse range of apparel that celebrates black pride, including popular phrases like “Blackety Black” and “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Blackness.” The line also addresses pressing issues such as police violence and systemic oppression, with shirts featuring powerful imagery related to the thirteenth amendment and thought-provoking slogans advocating for equality, such as the popular “It’s not pie” shirt.
When asked why he chose clothing as his medium for activism, Cole articulated his thought process clearly: “Clothing, especially T-shirts, can infiltrate any environment—public or private. They hold the power of street art or protest without needing to say a word. I often see people engaging with the messages on my shirts, and it brings me joy to know that I’ve ignited a thought in their minds.”
If you’re looking for a dynamic and impactful way to support black art and challenge systemic racism, Black on Black is an excellent starting point. It’s an effortless way to back small businesses while fostering the important conversations that need to take place; your stance is literally on display.
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Summary
Black on Black is a clothing line founded by Marcus Cole that aims to use fashion as a medium for social activism, specifically to address and dismantle racism. The brand champions self-empowerment and inclusivity, offering apparel that encourages conversations about race and pride in one’s identity.