Bessie Fontenelle with her Son Richard

Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was a pioneering African American photographer, filmmaker, musician, and writer, best known for his profound work documenting the American civil rights movement and the experiences of African Americans. Born into poverty, Parks was self-taught, using his camera as a tool for social change. His photo essays for Life magazine, notably on racial segregation, poverty, and urban life, broke new ground in photojournalism. Parks also made history as the first African American to direct a major Hollywood film, "The Learning Tree," based on his own semiautobiographical book, and the iconic film "Shaft." His legacy endures through his multifaceted contributions to art and culture, showcasing the power of art as a vehicle for justice and understanding.

Fort Scott, KS, USA