Adrienne Raquel brings inclusivity to Playboy.

This year, Playboy publication stated that “The Winter 2020 PLAYBOY is dedicated to equality. In this issue, you’ll meet people who are shaping culture and leading the charge for change, people whose work gives us hope that in this next decade we will all enjoy a more equitable society.”. 

Playboy released its first-ever Equality Issue and the Playmate of the Month was Model, Army Veteran and aspiring politician – Chasity Samone. Capturing the moment was the very talented photographer; Adrienne Raquel. 

Photographer and art director Adrienne Raquel is no stranger to capturing the beauty of black women. The New York-based creative’s catalogue of work pulls the viewer into what seems like the private moments of a woman who is also a complete enigma. 

In an industry that is dominated by the white male gaze, it is refreshing to see women of colour portrayed by a woman of colour. This type of context dramatically heightens the impact of every frame. The waves of nostalgia wash over every photo and the lighting makes you wonder if Raquel travels with a pocket full of sunlight.

Having photographed rising stars like Lizzo, Yara Shahidi and more recently playmate- Chasity Samone – I am curious to know if there is a tale that travels from image to image. Raquel brings the many faces of beauty that exists in black and brown women to the forefront. It seems that with every opportunity she has, she is telling their story and creating a larger space for inclusivity in the industry. 

Check out the GUAP Arts & Culture section, to discover new art, film, and creative individuals.