The word "magnanimity" is defined by Merriam-Webster as "the quality of being magnanimous; loftiness of spirit enabling one to bear trouble calmly, to disdain meanness and pettiness, and to display a noble generosity." For Rotterdam-based photographer Ouxu, the word has a deeper meaning, one that takes it back to its Latin roots. In Latin, "magna" means "great" and "animity" means "soul." That combination, "great soul," is why Ouxu chose to name her debut book that features her soul, hip hop and jazz concert photography Magnanimity.
The 76-page hardcover book has a striking white cover with the title in bold gold foil stamp on the front and names of artists who are featured in the book embossed all over. Although the names are also in white, they automatically jump out at you. Stevie Wonder. D'Angelo. Maxwell. Alicia Keys. Kendrick Lamar. These are but a few of the artists who Ouxu has captured with her lens while they've performed on various European and U.S. stages.
According to Ouxu, the "book is an homage to music, musicians and their live performances," and the passion on both sides of the camera can be seen in this collection of photographs. There's Erykah Badu flipping a bird. Raheem DeVaughn on his knees. Anthony Hamilton in the spotlight. Robert Glasper tickling the ivories. Slick Rick flaunting his jewels. Jay Z and Kanye West commanding the stage. There are quotes throughout the book by artists such as Cody ChesnuTT, Bilal and Dwele and a foreword by journalist Jalylah Burrell. Ouxu also shares her personal journey with a timeline of music milestones in her life, culminating with this publication.
Magnanimity is a beautiful book that belongs on the coffee tables and in the personal libraries of modern soul, hip hop and jazz fans and lovers of concert photography. Find out more information about Ouxu's Magnanimity and order the book directly from the Handmade Heroes website.
no images were found
