Reflections on Beauty
Chronicling the life of Madam C.J. Walker and the strong communities she fostered in America at the turn of the 20th century.
MIND THE GAP: “Reflections on Beauty” is an original work of art developed by PUBLIQuartet in 2019 with funding from New Music USA. This dynamic and thought-provoking piece encompasses varying genres, styles, and eras of music and literature reimagined and recomposed through group improvisation and composition that chronicle the life of the first female African-American self-made millionaire in America, Madam C.J. Walker.
From her origins as an uneducated washer-woman in St. Louis, to her final residence in Villa Lewaro in Irvington on Hudson, Madam Walker’s legacy as a massively successful hair-care business owner, philanthropist, social activist, and educator has had deep roots and lasting influence in African-American communities throughout the country.
In honor of the 2019 centennial anniversary of her death, PUBLIQuartet worked directly in collaboration with Madam Walker’s great-great-granddaughter, A’Lelia Bundles, to create a unique and unforgettable performance experience with plans for more to come.
Click to view the printed program
Explore the World Premiere performance below: