Black History Month: Homeward to the Prairie I Come

Gordon Parks Photographs From the Beach Museum of Art

Philbrook Museum is honoring Gordon Parks, famed African American photographer, with an exhibit opening Feb. 11 and running through June 19.

The African American Resource Center is partnering with Philbrook Museum to highlight the literature of Gordon Parks, his subjects and the world he photographed. Experience the exhibit at the Philbrook Museum and then visit the African American Resource Center at Rudisill Regional Library for further reading and additional resources on the incredible work of Gordon Parks.

One of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was also renowned as a poet, filmmaker, author, composer and activist. He is best known for his photojournalism from the 1940s to the 1970s that documented American life and culture, particularly the experiences of African Americans and the Civil Rights Movement. 

Parks forged many relationships in his home state of Kansas during his career, and in 1973, he donated over 100 career-spanning photographs to Kansas State University. Highlighting the life and career of Parks, "Homeward to the Prairie I Come" showcases poetry and prose by the artist alongside images from his gift to KSU that convey a wide range of artistic ideas. The exhibition features more than 70 photographs, including images captured by Parks for photojournalism and fashion assignments at LIFE magazine, striking portraits of prominent figures such as Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, as well as examples of his experimental photography.

"Homeward to the Prairie I Come: Gordon Parks Photographs From the Beach Museum of Art" is organized by the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, Kansas State University. Generous support provided by Art Bridges.

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