Based on the title of American artist Carrie Mae Weems artwork «From Here I Saw What Happened and I Cried», this book reflects on how humour originated racial stereotypes and derogatory stigmas, through a compendium of artworks created by Afro–American artists.

In the United States of America, during the slavery outbreak in the 19th century, the Minstrel Shows were a form of entertainment for a white and privileged audience. The representation of the African–American slaves through the form of “Blackface” created racial stereotypes that remain present until nowadays.

Through the use of geometrical shapes reminiscent of photography frames from the 19th Century, we wanted to provide a visual cue for all the archetypes, while containing the artworks as a way to explain the social and political oppression that Afro–Americans suffered.

By recontextualizing offensive imaginary through art movements such as Blaxploitation or Harlem Reinassance, the artists featured in this book counter the stigmatization of their community by using it as a form of empowerment.

Book designed in partnership with Raquel Piteira. Project awarded with the prestigious Gold ADG LAUS Award as the best Graphic Design project in the Masters and Postgraduates category in 2020. Special thanks to Raquel Piteira, Josep Román, Affaire Projects, Marc Panero and ELISAVA. Photography by Xavi García. Photography Assistant: Bernat Eguiluz. Set Design by Zorra Mimosa. Printed in Nova Era and bound in Naikare, Barcelona.