Tafawa Hicks

Tafawa Hicks is an accomplished photographer of masterful skill, exhibiting a profound passion, curiosity, and commitment to perfection in his craft. As a versatile professional, he operates within the realms of photojournalism, fine art printing, and custom picture framing. His confidence, thoughtfulness, and unwavering dedication are manifested in his ability to artfully capture and convey the narratives of individuals across the African diaspora in both the United States and international arenas. Guided by the overarching principle of "Preserving the beauty, history, and culture of African people worldwide," Tafawa Hicks has established himself as a prominent figure in the photographic documentation of the African experience.

Born as Arthur Hicks in 1947, Tafawa's familial journey mirrored The Great Migration, relocating from Bessemer, Alabama to Buffalo, New York in 1953. Following his service in the United States Army stationed in Germany at the age of 18, Hicks pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology and African studies from Buffalo State College. Subsequently, Brother Simba, an esteemed community elder, bestowed upon him the name "Tafawa," signifying "One who is worthy of praise."

Tafawa embarked on his photographic odyssey when his wife presented him with a camera during his sophomore year in college. Encouraged by a professor to diversify his academic pursuits, he enrolled in a photography class, kindling a passion that would shape his future. His professional trajectory commenced with employment at the Buffalo Challenger, a local African-American owned newspaper, leading to his longstanding role as the photographer for Buffalo's 1977 mayoral candidate and prominent New York State Assemblyman Deputy Speaker, Honorable Arthur O. Eve.

Over a span of 15 years, Tafawa directed a youth program funded by the New York State Division for Youth, offering guidance and imparting knowledge in photography, computer skills, and videography. Concurrently, he owned and operated the Images of Us Gallery of African and African American Art and Custom Framing, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Buffalo.

Throughout his tenure in Buffalo, Tafawa documented pivotal festivals, programs, and structures that served as beacons of hope and progress within the community. His extensive portfolio includes images of Juneteenth Festivals, Kwanzaa celebrations, and noteworthy individuals in Buffalo's socio-political sphere, such as Bill Gaiter, Pastor Bennett W. Smith, H. Carl McCall, former Vice President Walter Mondale, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., Louis Farrakhan, among others.

From 1974 to 1999, Tafawa embarked on extensive journeys to various African countries and Haiti, using the power of the lens to reshape the narrative surrounding African peoples. His evocative black and white as well as color photographs have been showcased in exclusive exhibits in Buffalo and Atlanta, Georgia.

Upon relocating to Atlanta in 2002, Tafawa served as an assistant to the esteemed Black photographer, Jim Alexander, and assumed the role of official cataloger for the works of griot and master wood sculptor, Baba Atu. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Tafawa is the creator and proprietor of Black Tree Arts, a visual arts wholesale and retail company specializing in showcasing the works of Black artists across the United States, offering expert high-quality scans, prints, and custom frames.