In 1994, southern born artist Greg
McNeal began teaching himself photography.
“I was disheartened by the negative
and stereotypical images of black men that were promoted to the world.
My mission was to create images of my brothers that showed the
strength, beauty, and the God within us which is true to spirit."
Greg wanted to create images that
came from a black perspective that were uplifting, sexy, sometimes
spiritual, and allowed freedom of spirit without judgment.
"It’s important to me that we as black
people show our true identity to the world instead of allowing others
to show their perception of us. I would like us to look deeper
at each other and see new potential and
possibilities, and to encourage each other to show
that to the world."
Greg's work has toured with the
Smithsonian Institute. He has shot political events, HIV
Campaigns, celebrity and political field galas. He has worked in
foreign countries (Africa, Spain, and Thailand) and launched art posters.
His photographs have also been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers (Arts and
Antiques, The Washington Post, Gallery Showings, and The Tri-Star
Defender).
"Since my journey began, I have
witnessed the deterioration of the black male image. This makes me
fearful. I question the direction and choices black men have made
for themselves in these modern times. My new goal is an evolution of
myself and my work. Many great artists were not appreciated in their
time. People have told me that 'I am
before my time.' That would suggest that God made a mistake by creating
me now.
I don’t believe that God makes mistakes!"
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