She studied acting, elocution and dance, paying for her lessons by working as a manicurist. In the early 1940s, she worked as a model and was a member of the first African American group to perform at the Chicago Theatre. At the same time, Powell taught etiquette, worked as a maid to wealthy clientele and held fashion shows.
After reading about the nine-story, 200-room Gotham Hotel in Detroit, she went there for a visit and relocated to the city soon after. In 1951 she opened the Maxine Powell Finishing and Modeling School. Two years later, she bought and remodeled a house that became the largest banquet facility for African Americans in Detroit. She also had her own talent agency and was the first to place black models in mainstream print ads.
In 1964 Berry Gordy's sister, Gwen Gordy Fuqua, was one of her top models. She persuaded her brother to establish a Powell finishing school for Motown talent. She was director of Motown's Artist Development Department for many years, and every Motown artist was required to attend classes. Powell taught Motown artists all the social graces, including etiquette, dress, speech, posture and general comportment.
According to Smokey Robinson, "It didn't matter who you became during the course of your career--how many hits you had, how well your name was known around the world," he said. "Two days a week when you were back in Detroit you had to go to artists' development. It was mandatory." Her personal instruction helped Robinson's career, as well as that of Diana Ross and the Supremes, the Temptations and others.
She wanted Motown performers not only to be poised on stage and with the press, but also to feel confident enough to visit the White House or Buckingham Palace. She reportedly reminded Motown's female stars, "Ladies, remember your gloves, walk with class like you were taught — and always remember, do not protrude the buttocks."
From 1971 to 1985, Powell taught personal development at Wayne County Community College. After 1985, she worked as a consultant.
From 1971 to 1985, Powell taught personal development at Wayne County Community College. After 1985, she worked as a consultant.
From thehistorymakers.com, msn.com and detroitnews.com
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| Maxine Powell faac.us |
