Gordon Parks
- Born:
- November 30, 1912, Fort Scott, Kansas, USA
- Died:
- March 7, 2006, New York City, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Photographer, Film Director, Writer, Composer, Poet
Early Life and Education
- Born into poverty and racial segregation in Kansas.
- Experienced significant hardship and discrimination early in life.
- Largely self-taught in photography after purchasing a camera at a pawnshop.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his photography career documenting life among the poor during the Great Depression.
- Worked for the Farm Security Administration (FSA) and later the Office of War Information (OWI).
- Broke barriers as the first African American photographer for Life and Vogue magazines.
- Directed the landmark film The Learning Tree (1969), based on his autobiographical novel, becoming the first African American to direct a major studio film.
- Directed the successful action film Shaft (1971) and its sequel Shaft's Big Score! (1972).
- Composed music for several of his films and wrote poetry and novels throughout his career.
- His work showcased both the beauty and struggles of African American life.
- Contributed significantly to the visual record of the Civil Rights Movement.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Learning Tree | 1969 | Director, Writer, Composer |
| Shaft | 1971 | Director |
| Shaft's Big Score! | 1972 | Director |
| Leadbelly | 1976 | Director |
Publications
- A Choice of Weapons (Autobiography)
- The Learning Tree (Novel)
- Numerous photographic essays and collections.
Legacy and Impact
Gordon Parks was a pioneering figure who broke racial barriers in photography and filmmaking. His work provided a powerful and nuanced portrayal of African American life and contributed significantly to the understanding of social issues in America. His impact on visual arts and representation is undeniable. Many seek out examples of 'african american biography pictures' and his work is regularly featured.