Children’s Museum showcases Ruth E. Carter’s iconic costumes from films
Mar 25, 2025
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH)- Celebrating a woman whose creativity and talent have left an incredible mark in the film industry. Ruth E. Carter is a two-time academy award-winning costume designer.
From the African-inspired designs of Black Panther, to the symbolism behind the costumes in Malcom X, ea
ch piece is a testament to Carters’s skill at blending history, culture, and storytelling.
“It’s amazing to me because each one is a different time in my life, and now they’re all here together,” said Carter.
Carter’s journey to becoming the success she is today, started when she auditioned for an acting role, but didn’t get the part. She was asked to design the costumes instead, and her passion grew from there.
“Quickly, I realized that I could play all the characters, not just one. That I was able to do a character discovery, a deep dive into the intricoes of each of the characters and bring the characters to life amongst all of them,” said Carter.
As Carter sees it, making the costumes became a new way of exploring art, photography, textures and design.
“I can recreate this in a medium that tells the story of them. I see their story, I see behind their eyes and who they are, and it just fascinates me,” said Carter.
Her work is featured in many popular films including, Coming to America, Selma, Roots, Rosewood, and Wakanda Forever. Carter came to Indianapolis this past weekend for the debut of her exhibit at the Children’s Museum, and for a panel discussion at the Walker Theatre.
“Each one of these pieces here, they represent some passion that I had. I made lots of decisions on each one of these costumes,” said Carter.
For young women or people of color who look up to Carter’s career, she says its important to know that it’s a passion career and not always glamorous, but it’s key to be excited about your individual path.“You have to be a student of your passion and you have to stay the course. You learn so much even from your mistakes. There is no such thing as a mistake. It is sometimes difficult, but that just means you have to push yourself,” said Carter.
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