Gordon Parks (1912-2006) used photography as a quiet but unflinching instrument of empathy, dignity, and resistance, turning everyday moments into deeply human stories. His images remind us that seeing clearly — and caring — can be a powerful creative act.
Thank you, Alexander Tvorogov, for reminding us of his work.
Until next time,
Tomasz
When I was a young girl, our young neighbors were part of the Fresh Air Summer program and brought a kind-hearted Black girl my age to live with them in suburban Ohio for about two weeks. I loved her and remembered her name for the longest time, but now 50+ years later it is gone.
I really loved playing with her everyday. What struck me as odd, even at the time, was that she wanted to play “Tammy,” an insipid ABC sitcom starring Debbie Watsen, a sweet blonde southern teen that fell in love with a different beau every week so she could look wistful and sing the popular song, “Tammy’s in Love.”
I always wanted to take turns being the sweet-faced Tammy, but she would never agree since I “looked” the part. We’d always end up crooning together with our arms locked in an embrace, “Tammy, Tammy, Tammy’s in love!”
The neighbors kept in touch with her for a little while but I never saw her again. I often wonder what happened to her. Prayed often she’d had a good life.
Some poignant shots.