The Earl W. and Amanda Stafford Center for African American Media Arts (CAAMA) is dedicated to exploring the formation of African American history and culture through media arts, including photography, film, video, and audio recordings. CAAMA – the red glass encased “jewel box” – located on the 2nd floor of the Museum, presents a photography and film exhibition, Everyday Beauty, featuring 100 images and rarely seen films from the Museum’s growing photography and moving image collection.

Everyday Beauty uses the lenses of history, culture, and community to reflect themes of self-representation, social responsibility, and resilience. African Americans have long recognized the power of images and used them to document moments – from the monumental to everyday.

Photography and film has also been used to challenge negative perceptions, demonstrate the strength of the human spirit, and promote social reform. This exhibition examines African American history and culture by presenting 100 images spanning 100 years. These selected works highlight the beauty of everyday occasions and feature photography and films by known and lesser-known artists.