U.S. Embassy celebrates Black History Month

Darío Calmese
Darío Calmese delivers a presentation on portraiture to professional and student photographers at the Museum of Fine Arts

The U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan, in partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan, celebrates Black History Month by hosting a visit of the American photographer Dario Calmese from February 23 to February 28 in Ashgabat. Mr. Calmese will exhibit his photography collection focusing on African American traditions and give presentations on the history of Black photography, fashion, and African American innovators to interested students, photography professionals, and the general public. He will also lead workshops on portrait photography to share his expertise with art and photography students and professionals.

At his presentations and workshops, Mr. Calmese will share his expertise and new ideas for developing long-term portrait projects. Participants will also learn about the history of Black fashion in America, as well as the contributions made by African American inventors throughout the history of the United States.

Mr. Calmese’s photography exhibition will consist of images documenting Harlem native and socialite, Lana Turner, whose collection of vintage hats, clothing, and accessories from the 1940s and 1950s rivals some museum collections. The exhibition will open on February 23 and run until February 27 at the Fine Arts Museum in Ashgabat.