A Closer Look at Gordon Parks
Three videos give us a glimpse at the work of a legendary artist.
Down the photo rabbit hole!
There are many things wrong with the internet, but you can’t beat its utility for diving deeper into photography. I do this all the time: I get interested in a photographer and can instantly learn new things about their work. It’s pretty incredible.
I’m giving away two copies of a new Gordon Parks book this week. I have been reading about him for the past few days, and everything is intriguing. It feels good to learn something new.
These days, YouTube is a go-to place for photography insights. It’s frequently a treasure trove and doesn’t disappoint in the Gordon Parks department. I bookmarked a few videos and thought I’d share them with you, my photography friends. Many of you know Parks’ work; some have just learned about him. I’m somewhere in the middle — eager to know more and have lots to learn.
I figured I’d give you some video goodies to watch this weekend and a reminder to enter the book giveaway. There is a lot to look at here. Enjoy!
I mentioned Parks’ photographs of Ella Watson in my previous post. Vincent Brown explores this work in a PBS The Bigger Picture episode. This is an excellent piece that contextualizes an iconic image. This entire series looks terrific.
One of my readers recommended I see this film, and I’m glad they did. HBO Documentaries released A Choice of Weapons: Inspired by Gordon Parks in 2021. It looks like a must-see movie, and it’s on my watchlist now.
Finally, The Genius of Photography surveys fifty of Parks’ most famous photographs. I like this approach — sit back, relax, and take it all in. Do you have a favorite Gordon Parks photograph?
One more thing…
I’m teaming up with Steidl to give away two copies of Gordon Parks: American Gothic in the newsletter this week. I’ll draw two book winners on Saturday, May 4. Who wants it? Have a terrific weekend!
Gordon wrote several autobiographies during his lifetime, which are well worth the read. I highly recommend them for anyone who wants to take a deep dive into his life.
Fun! I read a little bit about him in my history this past week… it was very interesting.