We Were Here — The Untold History of Black Africans in Renaissance Europe
We Were Here — The Untold History of Black Africans in Renaissance Europe sheds light on the overlooked presence of African and Black individuals in Renaissance Europe, highlighting their depiction in masterpieces by some of the era’s most celebrated artists. How did they come to Europe? Why were they portrayed? Were they truly all servants or slaves? If the Black faces portrayed in these Renaissance masterpieces could speak, what would they tell us? Directed by award- winning filmmaker Fred Kudjo Kuwornu and produced by Do The Right Films, this multilingual documentary takes viewers on an expansive journey through the UK, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and France, offering a compelling reexamination of European art history and its cultural legacy.
Cup of Culture
Take a study break or bring your books and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and light refreshments.
5–6:30pm movie
6:30–7:30pm Q&A + reception
For more information or assistance in accommodating people of varying abilities contact the Multicultural Center at 805.893.8411
Fred Kudjo Kuwornu is a multi-hyphenate socially engaged artist, filmmaker and scholar whose work is deeply influenced by his background as a person of African descent.