Gordon Parks

Synopsis

Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was a pioneering figure in 20th-century photography. As well as being the first African-American photographer to join the Farm Security Administration (FSA) and to become a staff photographer for Life magazine, he was also a writer, film director and composer. Although best known for documenting issues such as poverty, race relations and civil rights, he was remarkably versatile, turning his gift for visual narrative to subjects as diverse as news coverage, fashion, art and sport. He also captured prominent figures of his era, from Malcolm X to Marilyn Monroe, in a series of memorable portraits. Working in the US and around the world, he was driven by a commitment to social justice: 'The common search for a better life and a better world is deeper than colour or blood.'

Summary

Chapter 1: The Kansas Years

* Born into poverty and segregation in Fort Scott, Kansas
* Raised by his mother and grandmother, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination
* Worked as a janitor, porter, and Pullman car waiter to support his family
* Developed a love of photography and writing at a young age
* Inspired by the work of Langston Hughes and other Harlem Renaissance figures

Example: At 14, Parks borrowed a box camera and took a photograph of a seamstress at work. This photo later won a prize in a national contest.

Chapter 2: The St. Paul Years

* Moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, in search of better opportunities
* Worked as a waiter and photographer for the St. Paul News
* Began to document the lives of African Americans in the Twin Cities
* Published his first photobook, "Camera Takes a Walk," in 1948
* Became a staff photographer for LIFE magazine in 1949

Example: Parks' iconic photograph of a black cleaning woman and white businessman, titled "American Gothic," captured the racial tensions of the time.

Chapter 3: The Harlem Renaissance

* Moved to Harlem, New York, in the 1950s
* Immersed himself in the vibrant arts and culture scene
* Photographed leading figures such as James Baldwin, Duke Ellington, and Malcolm X
* Published his autobiography, "A Choice of Weapons," in 1966
* Directed his first feature film, "The Learning Tree," in 1969

Example: Parks' portrait of Malcolm X, taken just hours before his assassination, became a powerful symbol of the civil rights movement.

Chapter 4: The Later Years

* Continued to photograph, write, and film throughout his life
* Received numerous awards and honors, including a Pulitzer Prize for photography in 1956
* Authored several more books and directed several more films
* Established the Gordon Parks Foundation to support young artists and filmmakers
* Passed away in 2006 at the age of 93

Example: In 1988, Parks published his photobook "Moments Without Proper Names," which showcased his lifelong commitment to documenting the human condition.

Epilogue

* Gordon Parks' legacy as one of the most influential photographers and filmmakers of the 20th century
* His work has inspired generations of artists and activists
* His story continues to resonate with audiences today as a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and social justice