The image shown here was the catalyst for the message behind “Black Boys and Their Flowers.”

The heads of the suits being replaced with flowers played into them being deceased not only because of the quote, but as my interpretation of it focusing on unity and brotherhood.

I was personally struggling mentally as a black man during this time and I wanted to turn this into a project drawing awareness to black men’s mental health, both a voice for myself and to normalize this topic. I had my doubts about doing this project and mid test shoot(the darker blue photos), until I received a call from my best friend about our high school friend killing himself mid shoot. I broke down and just stopped it. The first shoot taking place March 7, 2024.

Coming back to the project Mid-March while still dealing with college graduation, job searching, his death, and keeping myself together was difficult. I persevered though because this project was needed, not just for me, but for other black men struggling through daily life.

Through self reflection, tough conversations, and therapy sessions I debuted my intro to the project summer of 2024. I cried as I wrote a script for a video for the first time, it felt weird doing this, to put out something vulnerable and authentic.

In between moving, financial troubles and still mental struggles, I edited videos, photos and graphics for the project from April 2024 to August 2024.

After showcasing this project, I not only got closer with the men, but it gave deep insight into masculinity and the different weights we as men carry. Coming from different walks of life, it shows how each of us handle our situations and discuss vulnerability, religion, loss, and hope.

This is a continuing series, and there will be another round soon, so be on the look out! If you made it this far thank you for reading the story behind the project and coming to my site!
Order of content:

• BBTF Test Shoot

• Pete

• Javon

• Sterling

• Interviews

Timeline: December 2023-August 2024