Vogue, we know you meant no harm.

Joelle Litt

Joelle Litt is a freelance writer and wardrobe stylist.

But, harm you did. Old news, perhaps, but the blackface fourteen page spread in French Vogue's October issue a few months past caused quite a stir amongst its readers, and the rest of the media world.
If you missed it...here is a peek...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/14/french-vogue-blacking-up

Why do I bring this up now? Ever since this issue came out, I have been racking my brain for a proper alternative. Whether they were seeking a publicity stunt (effective, if so, but still morally not a good idea) or just looking for a means of creativity, this shoot was all wrong. As a stylist, I am constantly seeking out new forms of creativity and beauty to make a story. The other day, out of nowhere, I met a girl with her face painted. This was no kids' birthday party face-painting. It was literally a face turned canvas, prowling the streets of Toronto...in December. All I could really say was something along the lines of, "Who, what, and where?"
She handed me a business card, which read, 'Natasha Kudashkina Human Painting.' No contact information to be seen. So, what did I do...I googled her, of course. And, she has a facebook group (and a website that seems to be in the making).
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Natasha-Kudashkina-Human-Painting/20622953...

How stunning of a spread could French Vogue had done if they had only thought outside the box, and not so far as to offend.

Stay tuned for my take on how to properly use the right side of the brain when it comes to a fashion spread, blackface not included, but I will opt for the real thing; a black model.