Celebrate Gordon Parks at Macy's Black History Month Events

In case you missed it, February is Black History Month. I’ve been concentrating on the Lunar New Year for the past few weeks, I completely forgot. February is turning out to be chock full of cultural opportunities for our family!

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Every year Macy’s celebrates Black History Month by honoring an African American artist. Last year, Macy’s showcased artist Romare Bearden and I was lucky enough to be able to see his artwork then. This year, Macy’s is celebrating iconic photographer Gordon Parks’ 100th birthday.

Gordon Parks begin his career as the first African-American staff photographer for LIFE magazine in 1948. He was also a film director, author and composer. He was quite the Renaissance man, wasn’t he? Throughout February, you’ll be able to view an installation of Parks’ works at Macy’s locations across the United States (full list). At each of the locations on the list, there will be a special “In Conversation” discussion about Parks’ work. All these events are free and open to the public.

For my DC readers, you can learn more about Gordon Parks and see his work at Macy’s Metro Center. Here’s the details of the event:

What:Macy’s, the Gordon Parks Foundation and American Black Film Festival Celebrate the 100th Birthday of American Icon, Gordon Parks
Where: Macy’s Metro Center, Lower Level, Furinture Gallery
When: Thursday, February 21 at 5:30pm
Featuring special guests: Join us in “In Conversation” with Malik Yoba and Lamman Rucker moderated by WJLA Anchor, Cynne Simpson, for a spirited discussion on Gordon Parks’ influence on film and the future of African-American cinema. Following the discussion, enjoy light refreshments. Plus, with any $50 or more purchase made during the event, receive a commemorative Gordon Parks journal (while supplies last).

RSVP here.

There’s also an event at Macy’s Bowie Town Center on February 23 that features a children’s “Design Your Own Book” event and a Soul Jam style dance party.

If you can’t make it to an installation, Macy’s has a video and photo gallery of Gordon Parks’ works. Don’t forget to enter the sweepstakes to win a trip to the American Black Film Festival.

I won’t be able to make it to the event, but I definitely will head to my library to look up Parks’ works.

A member of Everywhere Society, I was compensated for this post. Having previously attended one of Macy’s Black History Month events, I highly recommend them!