Main content

‘I’m going to be in the Museum of Modern Art one day’
In 1979, photographer Ming Smith made history by becoming the first African-American woman to have her photos bought by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Through her work as a model, she knew some of the biggest stars in the world.
One of her most famous photos is of Tina Turner on the set of the What’s Love Got to Do with It music video.
Another is of Grace Jones performing in the legendary New York nightclub, Studio 54.
Ming said the recognition from MoMA was a “pat on the back” which set her on her way.
Duration:
This clip is from
More clips from Witness History
-
The story of World Book Day—The origin of World Book Day
Duration: 01:04
-
'How I uncovered the Unabomber's identity'—Hunting the Unabomber
Duration: 01:27
-
What do US presidents like to eat?—Chef to five presidents
Duration: 01:29