From Preaching Souls to Suburbia: A Journey with Dr. Deborah Willis
- Sheila Pree Bright
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 16
I first met Dr. Deborah Willis in the 1990s when I was still finding my voice as an artist. From the very beginning, she saw my vision and has always supported my work. Over the years, she has been more than a mentor; she is a constant source of encouragement and advocate for preserving and celebrating Black culture. As a historian, educator, and acclaimed photographer, she has authored around twenty books that center on the visual history of image makers by Black photographers. Her commitment to our stories has shaped me and countless others and it feels more urgent now than ever in the history of the Americas.
That's why being part of Refelctions in Black: A Reframing feels so meaningful, curated by Dr Willis and exhibited by the Center for Black Visual Culture and Tisch School of the Arts, Department of Photography & Imaging. This exhibition marks the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking book Reflections in Black: A History of Black Photographers 1840 to the Present, the first comprehensive history of Black photographers.
I am honored to be included in that original 2000 publication with my Preaching Souls series (1998), and now my Suburbia series, decades later, will be featured in this new chapter, Reflections in Black: A Reframing.
This reimagined exhibition gathers historic and contemporary works into one space, refaming the narrative and honoring the extraordinary visual legacy of Black image makers from the 19th century to the present. For me, it's a testament to the relationships, mentorship, and vision that have carried my work forward.
On View: September 4 – December 21, 2025
Two New York locations: Cooper Square Gallery, 5:30-7:00 pm Photo & Imaging Galleries, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tisch School of the Arts, Department of Photography & Imaging, Gulf & Western Galleries 721 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
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