Who was Carl Van Vechten and how did he contribute to the Harlem Renaissance?

Carl Van Vechten was a significant figure in the Harlem Renaissance, primarily as a literary figure and cultural promoter rather than as a tour guide. His contributions were notable because he was a white author and photographer who used his platform to champion African American culture and artists during the 1920s, a crucial period for the Harlem Renaissance. Rather than merely observing, he played an active role in promoting black artists, musicians, and writers by introducing them to broader audiences.

His novel "Nigger Heaven," though controversial, brought attention to the vibrant life in Harlem, highlighting the cultural and artistic brilliance of the African American community. Furthermore, his extensive photography captured the essence of Harlem and its inhabitants, helping to immortalize the movement.

The other options do not accurately represent Van Vechten’s role. While he was neither primarily a poet, musician, nor an artist in the traditional sense, his influence through writing, photography, and advocacy significantly shaped the visibility of the Harlem Renaissance.