To celebrate Black History Month, the team compiled our favorite inspirational quotes from some of the world's best black photographers, including Gordon Parks, Eli Reed, Lorna Simpson, Roy DeCavara, and Carrie Mae Weems.
Each have contributed to the photography world in different and profound ways, and their experience and point of view continue to inspire us today:
Gordon Parks was a photographer and humanitarian with a passion for documenting poverty and civil rights in the second half of the 20th century. His signature style continues to be celebrated as one of the most iconic of the time.
Carrie Mae Weems is an eclectic artist dedicated to exploring the themes of family, gender, racism, and class in America. Although she is well known in the creative community for her revolutionary photography series, she is also an award-winning artist who has worked with textiles, video, and more.
Eli Reed is a Harvard-educated photojournalist, professor, and author, and is best known for being the first black photographer to be employed by the famed Magnum Agency. He has captured everything from the everyday life of African Americans in America to major historical events worldwide.
Lorna Simpson is an innovative, multimedia artist who revolutionized the art world with her introduction of photography installations featuring text. Her work continues to be exhibited worldwide.
Roy DeCarava was a New York City-based fine art photographer who mastered the documentary style of photography in the 20th century and beyond. He was awarded the National Medal of the Arts in 2006.
