Gordon Parks' Impact on Photography

Gordon Parks, born stillborn and revived, overcame early life challenges to become a pioneering black photographer. Inspired by a magazine spread, he bought a camera and taught himself photography, eventually working in Washington, D.C., where he captured the struggles of black Americans. His iconic photo, American Gothic, highlighted racial segregation. Parks' work spanned photography, writing, and film, leaving a lasting legacy as a Renaissance man.

What significant event occurred at Gordon Parks' birth?

• He was stillborn and revived with ice water.

• He was named after a famous photographer.

• He was born in a hospital.

• He was the first child in his family.

What inspired Gordon Parks to buy his first camera?

• A gift from a friend.

• A family member's suggestion.

• A magazine spread about migrant workers.

• A photography class he attended.

How did Gordon Parks learn photography?

• He learned from a family member.

• He attended a prestigious art school.

• He was self-taught.

• He took online courses.

What opportunity did Parks' photographs in Chicago lead to?

• A teaching position at a university.

• An exhibit in New York City.

• A chance to work as a government photographer.

• A job as a fashion photographer.

What did Parks' boss advise him to do in Washington?

• Focus on fashion photography.

• Avoid controversial topics.

• Search for a meaningful subject.

• Take photos of government buildings.

Who was Ella Watson in Gordon Parks' work?

• A cleaning lady and subject of his photography.

• A government official.

• A famous model.

• A fellow photographer.

What did Parks aim to reveal through his photography?

• The history of photography.

• The reality of racism.

• The struggles of the wealthy.

• The beauty of nature.

What was the main theme of Parks' photograph 'American Gothic'?

• The history of American architecture.

• The beauty of American landscapes.

• The unfairness of segregation.

• The success of the American Dream.

What other art forms did Gordon Parks contribute to?

• Novels, movies, music, and poetry.

• Dance and theater.

• Sculpture and painting.

• Architecture and design.

What did Ella Watson symbolize in Parks' famous photograph?

• The beauty of American landscapes.

• The power of the government.

• The struggles and hopes of African Americans.

• The success of the American Dream.