In the heart of Detroit, a centuries-old tradition thrives, blending European roots with African American resilience. Miranda Barnes, a Brooklyn-born photographer, has captured this unique cultural phenomenon in her new book, Social Season, offering a glimpse into Black debutante balls where future community leaders are still Gen Z kids at heart.
A Historical Legacy Reimagined
Barnes opens her book with a poem set in the mid-1800s, a period of growing financial prosperity for some African Americans. Cotillion dances, with their European origins, have long been adapted by Black communities, featuring classic waltzes and quadrilles performed in fine attire. These events trace back through history as examples of African Americans striving for a better life, today continuing to introduce young women into society with a strong emphasis on education.
From Broader Project to Focused Vision
Initially, Barnes aimed to document various Black subcultures, photographing cheerleaders, churches, and traditional rodeos. However, her focus shifted when she targeted a debutante ball in a post-industrial city. Detroit, with its rich Black history, became the perfect setting. After attending her first event in 2022, she realised this was a standalone project requiring dedicated effort to capture the desired images.
Challenges and Collaboration in the Masonic Temple
The Detroit Masonic Temple, the venue for these cotillions, presented a unique challenge: no natural light, a departure from Barnes' usual reliance on it. She spent six to eight hours per event, arriving as participants prepared. Months of etiquette lessons and formal choreography practice precede each ball, with a live orchestra blending classical, jazz, and modern tunes like Sammy Davis Jr.'s Hello Detroit and Bridgerton-themed songs.
Over four consecutive years, Barnes adapted her approach, balancing posed shots with candid moments. She fostered a sense of collaboration, advising participants to ignore the camera flash. This connection, combined with extensive preparation like Zoom calls with families, was key to the project's success.
Moments of Waiting and Unexpected Variety
Each debutante is escorted by a father figure, with introductions highlighting their achievements and college plans. Barnes notes the extensive waiting involved; in early years, a lack of chairs in the waiting room led to tired young ladies sitting on the ground, while fathers stood firm. Another poignant image features a boy on crutches in formal wear, adding unexpected depth to the series. Barnes appreciated strict attire rules, believing they preserved the event's magic.
Tradition Meets Modernity
As the evening progresses, classical string instruments give way to contemporary party music, revealing these poised future leaders as typical Gen Z teens finishing high school. Barnes' work in Social Season not only documents a tradition but also highlights its evolution, showing how heritage and youth culture intersect in Detroit's vibrant community.
