Local film photographer Lisa Brown tells the story of Tunde, a Nigerian woman working to open a yoga space, in Lagos, Nigeria, through her photos featured in “Freezing Time: A Superpower,” at 11:Eleven Gallery in Northwest, D.C. (Courtesy Photo)

By Micha Green
D.C. and Digital Editor
mgreen@afro.com

The old adage says that a picture is worth one-thousand words, and photographer Lisa Brown, has been using a film camera to relay stories since the age of seven.  Brown’s most recent work, which tells the story of Tunde, a woman from Lagos, Nigeria, is currently featured in the exhibit, “Freezing Time: A Superpower,” at 11:Eleven Gallery, 10 Florida Avenue, Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20001.

Growing up between the nation’s capital and Compton, California, and the granddaughter of a local street photographer, the narratives of the community around her have always been engaging to Brown.  In fact her first introduction to photography classes and the darkroom was as a student in the Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C.  However, Brown has also been inspired by her interest in Africana Studies and travels to the continent of Africa, such as to Lagos, Nigeria, where she met Tunde, the woman who is the subject in her pieces in the current exhibit at 11:Eleven. 

“The pieces I shot earlier this year in Lagos, Nigeria from a young lady named Tunde looking for space to teach her yoga. This unfortunately was during COVID, SARS and new threats of Boko Haram kidnappings,” Brown said in an exclusive with the AFRO.

“Freezing Time: A Superpower,” features a variety of photographers, whose work are on display at 11:Eleven until Oct. 31.

Brown said her creative process begins by “hearing the stories,” of those she’s capturing first and then goes about “visualizing how to approach,” relaying the subjects’ narratives.

Brown explained the pieces of Tunde relay a story of victory.

“These particular pieces were important to show because of the triumph and empowerment Tunde shows through the photos,” the photographer said.

Having followed Tunde and learned her own lessons along the way, Brown has a clear message she hopes audiences receive when viewing her work. 

“Being present is important and taking up space,” Brown said. “Whenever you can, take up space.”

The film photographer, who has been recognized by the Pittsburgh Art Society, Black is Magazine and The National Museum of Women in the Arts, said all of her work featured in “Freezing Time: A Superpower,” is for sale.  Guests have until Oct. 31 to check out Brown’s film photography in person.

Her next exhibit will be dedicated to actress and dancer, Esther Rolle of “Good Times,” fame.

“My next show is dedicated to Esther Rolle with the Pompano County Art center in Florida,” she said.

Brown also encourages people to follow her work online and through social media.

“I would love for folks to reach out at www.healherphotography.com and social media @d.c.mamacita,” Brown said.

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