Carl Van Vechten

Carl Van Vechten (1880-1964) was an American writer, photographer, and patron of the arts, notable for his role in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement celebrating African American art and literature in the 1920s. He championed artists like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, promoting their work to a wider audience. Van Vechten was also known for his striking portraits, capturing influential figures of his time. His novel "Nigger Heaven" sparked controversy but brought attention to African American life. His contributions significantly shaped American culture and literature, reflecting the complexities of race, identity, and artistic expression.