AfroPoP to feature documentary on visionary artist Nellie Mae Rowe

NEW YORK — AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange will continue its 18th season on July 2 with the premiere of This World Is Not My Own, a documentary about self‑taught artist Nellie Mae Rowe. The film appears on Black Public Media’s Peabody Award‑winning series and highlights Rowe’s life, work and influence.

This World Is Not My Own Documentary Explores Rowe’s Life and Artistic Legacy

Directed by Opendox filmmakers Petter Ringbom and Marquise Stillwell, the documentary traces Rowe’s life from her 1900 birth in Georgia to her late‑life recognition in the national art world.

The film uses animation, scripted scenes and sets inspired by Rowe’s “Playhouse,” the home she filled with drawings, dolls, chewing‑gum sculptures and found objects. Producers say the approach reflects Rowe’s creative environment.

Three‑time Emmy winner Uzo Aduba voices Rowe, while actor Amy Warren portrays Rowe’s friend and arts patron Judith Alexander. Civil rights leader Andrew Young also appears.

Film Has Earned Multiple Festival Awards

This World Is Not My Own has received several honors, including:

• Jury Award for Best Documentary — Mendocino Film Festival
• Best Documentary Special Mention — Palm Springs International Film Festival
• Best Cinematography Award — Atlanta Film Festival

The film is the first feature‑length documentary to premiere exclusively on Black Public Media’s YouTube channel.

Story Highlights Rowe’s Friendship With Judith Alexander

The documentary examines the relationship between Rowe and Alexander. Rowe was the daughter of a sharecropper and formerly enslaved father. Alexander came from a prominent Jewish family in the South.

Their connection provides context for the film’s exploration of race, class, religion and gender across the 20th century.

Special Juneteenth Screening Planned in Atlanta

Before the AfroPoP premiere, the film will screen on June 19 at the Tara Theatre in Atlanta in partnership with the High Museum of Art. A discussion will follow with curator Katherine Jentleson and Rowe’s great‑nieces Cathi Perry and Cheryl Mashack.

To find out more about AfroPoP, visit https://blackpublicmedia.org/afropop/.