Ruth E. Carter is a two-time academy award-winning costume designer whose creativity and talent have left an incredible mark in the film industry.

From the African-inspired designs of “Black Panther” to the symbolism behind the costumes in “Malcolm X,” each piece is a testament to Carter’s skill at blending history, culture, and storytelling.

During an exhibition of her costumes at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, she said, “It’s amazing to me because each one is a different time in my life, and now they’re all here together.”

Carter’s journey to success 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. “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.”

“Each one of these pieces here, they represent some passion that I had. I made lots of decisions on each one of these costumes.”

As Carter sees it, making 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.”

Her work is featured in many popular TV shows and films including, “Coming to America,” “Selma,” “Roots,” “Rosewood,” and “Wakanda Forever.” Carter came to Indianapolis during the past weekend for the debut of her exhibition at the Children’s Museum and for a panel discussion at the Madam Walker Legacy Center.

For young women or people of color who aspire to Carter’s career, she says, it’s important to know that it’s a passion career and not always glamorous, but it’s key to be excited about one’s own 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.”

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