“Smoke” pays homage to Benjamin, an American underground singer, poet, and cultural icon, as well as to Cabbageton, an underprivileged neighborhood in Atlanta. Conceived as an album, it seamlessly blends Michael Ackerman’s photographs, Benjamin’s personal notes and historical documents, along with writings contributed by Jem Cohen and Patti Smith. This work unveils the timeless elegance, immediacy, subtlety, and exuberance of a marginalized individual from a forgotten era.

“I vividly recall my initial visit to Benjamin’s residence, my first experience in Atlanta. It was late at night, following a Smoke performance. He and his friends were gathered in his room, engaging in conversations, laughter, and shared moments while enjoying their cigarettes. I had just met him and couldn’t fathom why I had been invited. He exuded brilliance, charisma, humor, and tenderness. I sat in a corner, awestruck and somewhat overwhelmed, choosing to remain silent. Perhaps I snapped a few photographs, or perhaps I didn’t. Around 4 in the morning, I settled down to sleep on the floor in another room. A few hours later, I awoke, peered into his room, and spotted him asleep on the floor in front of his bed. Now, 27 years later, I attempt to recollect my feelings upon seeing him in that vulnerable state. I did capture a photograph at that moment, and I gently carried him to his bed. Then, I stepped out into the daylight to explore the neighborhood of Cabbagetown.” – Michael Ackerman.