Jasmine Nichole Cobb

Jasmine Nichole Cobb is a visual and cultural historian. Cobb writes nonfiction about freedom, centering Black women as icons of liberation and autonomy. Her books explore culture through still and moving images. Cobb's recent book, New Growth: The Art and Texture of Black Hair, considers the concept and portrayal of "natural hair." Through an exploration of hair clippings, slave narratives, scrapbooks, travel illustrations, documentary films, photography, and fine art, she offers a long view of the cultural and textural significance of Black hair. In addition to books, Cobb consults on exhibitions, curates public programs, and offers workshops that explore art, cultural identities, and archival collections. She earned a Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania, is the Earl D. McLean Jr. Professor of African & African American Studies and Art, Art History & Visual Studies at Duke University and a fellow at the National Humanities Center.