One of the many things I like about museums is that I learn stuff that I didn’t know before. I mean I learn things that I had no clue about. A recent trip to Tulsa’s Philbrook Museum taught me something. It was about a photographer named Gordon Parks. I had never heard of him before, but it turns out he was a major talent. You can read more about the exhibition here.
He was born in Fort Scott, Kansas in 1912 and had a rough life. (Check out his Wikipedia page.) He bought his first camera when he was 28 years old and taught himself how to take photographs. He went to work as a fashion photographer at a woman’s clothing store. He eventually opened his own portrait studio
He specialized in portraits of society women. He also photographed the life of African Americans in Chicago. He eventually worked for the government in various capacities. After World War II, he became a freelance fashion photographer for Vogue Magazine. Then later for Life Magazine.
Parks also directed films. He wrote and directed Shaft, a detective film and several others. He had a very productive life and died in 2006.
The thing about photographers is that they have that “eye” for things. They can take great photos regardless of the equipment they are using. I used to work with a woman who had that eye. She would win the company’s photography awards using just her phone for a camera.
That eye is everything. The exhibition at Philbrook lasts until early June.
…Gordon Parks was renown artist.
I’ve never heard of him but he sounds like a fascinating character, have a great week.
His name is not familiar to me, even knowing Shaft. Whoever took that photo of him you shared was talented him or herself! That’s a great photo.
Je ne connaissais pas non plus ce photographe, son travail est vraiment impressionnant. 👍
I was fortunate to see a large Godon Parks exhibit in the Corcoran Gallery Washington DC when our son was student in GWU years ago.
I am not familiar with his work, but I enjoyed the information and photos you shared.
Thanks for sharing this marvelous photographer ~ Wow! He definitely had that ‘ eye’
an artist reflects
Reading with great interest. Never heard before. It’s important to blog about.
Thank you for sharing and for hosting.
Greetings by Heidrun
Glad to read, Amazing photography .
Awesome photography, a great exhibit!
Take care, enjoy your day and have a happy weekend.
A very interesting and accomplished man.
I am familiar with his work. I did not know about his connection to Shaft. Now the theme music is playing in my head!