What's Happening?
The legendary headquarters of the Johnson Publishing Company (JPC) at 820 S. Michigan Avenue in Chicago is the subject of a newly released monograph, '820 Ebony/Jet: Visions of the Johnson Publishing Company, an American Icon.' Authored by architectural
and design photographer Barbara Karant, the book chronicles the interiors of the 11-story modernist building, designed by architect John Moutoussamy and opened in 1972. John H. Johnson founded JPC with the aim of providing positive representation and inclusion for Black Americans through publications like Ebony and Jet magazines, at a time when Black representation in mainstream media was minimal. Karant spent 13 years documenting the vacant interiors of the building, which was purchased by Columbia College in 2010, capturing its vibrant and unique design.
Why It's Important?
This monograph is important as it preserves the legacy of a pioneering institution that played a crucial role in shaping Black identity and representation in American media. The Johnson Publishing Company, through Ebony and Jet, offered a counter-narrative to the prevailing negative or absent portrayals of Black Americans in mainstream publications. The building itself, as the first high-rise in Chicago built for a Black company by a Black architect, stands as a symbol of Black achievement and self-determination. Documenting its interiors, which were known for their saturated colors, geometric patterns, and extensive artwork, provides insight into the aesthetic and cultural vision that underpinned JPC's mission. This historical preservation is particularly timely given renewed discussions about Black history and representation.
Beyond the Headlines
The book '820 Ebony/Jet' goes beyond a mere architectural record; it serves as a powerful reminder of the historical struggle for racial justice and representation in media. John H. Johnson's vision, which can be seen as Afrofuturist, created an environment that fostered creativity and pride within the Black community. The monograph's release in the current political climate, marked by ongoing debates about how Black history is preserved and presented, makes it particularly relevant. It highlights the enduring impact of institutions like JPC in challenging stereotypes and providing platforms for diverse voices. The book's inclusion of employee recollections further enriches its historical value, offering personal perspectives on the significance of working in such a groundbreaking and culturally important space.
