Rahim Fortune - Hardtack

Discover Hardtack, a compelling visual narrative by Fortune that celebrates the enduring legacy of Black culture and traditions in the American South. Spanning ten years, this profound portraiture series is rooted in the history, resilience, and landscapes of the region, offering a deeply personal and historical exploration.

Drawing inspiration from hardtack—a Civil War-era survival food symbolizing perseverance—Fortune uses this metaphor to uncover the cultural and historical roots that bind Black communities to the complexities of post-emancipation America.

Building on the success of I Can't Stand to See You Cry, Fortune merges vernacular and archival photography styles to interrogate the historical relationship between Black communities and photography. Using significant cultural sites as a backdrop, Fortune weaves a narrative of resilience, where landscapes become symbols of cultural connection rather than just subjects.

A central theme in Hardtack is the dignified portrayal of coming-of-age traditions. From young bull-riders to praise dancers and pageant queens, Fortune captures the intergenerational exchange of rituals that celebrate creativity, discipline, and cultural pride. These striking portraits pay homage to the vibrant traditions passed down from elders to the younger generation.

Collecting nearly a decade of work, Hardtack stands as both a personal love letter and an important photographic contribution to the American South. This book is a testament to the strength, beauty, and joy that define Black communities, offering a heartfelt and enduring tribute to a rich cultural legacy.