Gordon Parks
Photographer and filmmaker

Born
November 30th, 1912
112 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2006
19 years ago — 93 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
Parks was a pioneering photographer, musician, and filmmaker who documented the African American experience in the 20th century. His work in photography started with Life magazine, where he became the first African American staff photographer. Parks directed the film 'Shaft,' which became a major influence in the genre of blaxploitation films. He also composed music and wrote books, further showcasing his artistic versatility.
First African American photographer at Life magazine
Director of the film 'Shaft'
Authored the memoir 'A Choice of Weapons'
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