Kuumba, one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, calls for a commitment to creativity within the context of a shared mission to restore communities to their traditional greatness.
Rooted in the social and sacred teachings of African societies, Kuumba challenges individuals to leave their communities more beautiful and beneficial than when they inherited them. It is both a social and spiritual principle, emphasizing the importance of using creativity as a tool for transformation.
This year, Harlem-based artist Nikki Williams exemplified Kuumba through her traveling art show and workshop series, Spreadin’ Joy, Jam & Jive: A Sweet R&B Ride on the Soul of My 45s.
Williams’ initiative aimed to uplift and inspire self-repair among Black artists by sharing treasures from her personal collection of over 200 vintage 45 vinyl records. Her work celebrates the power of creativity and community while honoring the rich cultural history of Black music.
In August, Williams brought her art show to the Macon Branch Library in Bedford-Stuyvesant and the 5Myles Gallery in Crown Heights. Reflecting on her inspiration, Williams described her project as "a celebration of the music of my era- a time when Blacks were into Blackness, and a time when I believed I could fly."
Her curated collection featured legendary artists like Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight, the Jackson Five and Aretha Franklin, rekindling the joy and pride of that era for audiences of all ages.
Music lovers across generations resonated deeply with the experience.
“Those of us that are seniors from that generation, we may not remember what we did yesterday. But when I throw out a title like, ‘Stop the Love you Save,’ it just opens a grin, because it was such a joyful time,” Williams said. “And even if you weren’t born then, you remember your mother or father or your grandparents playing the music.”
By dedicating herself to creating and sharing art that leaves a lasting impact, she fulfills the principle’s call to action: to do as much as we can, in the way that we can, to make our communities better and more beautiful.
BK Reader reported on Nikki Williams in August. Here's a link to that report.
Beginning on December 26, and for the seven days of Kwanzaa, BK Reader will feature a different local resident or organization that exemplifies one of the seven principles!
