Renowned Chicago-based photographer Steve Schapiro has given history a human face throughout his career as a widely published photographer for Life, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and numerous others. Visitors to this exhibit will experience the civil rights movement, as well as vivid portraits of celebrities who challenged—and changed—our cultural norms.
Schapiro spent days and weeks with many of his subjects, some of whom—Robert Kennedy, James Baldwin and David Bowie—became his close friends. These relationships add depth to the historic moments he captured. Hear Schapiro’s stories derived from the tumult of the 1960s and his career photographing historical icons and change-makers.
Moderating this opening event will be guest curator and civil rights historian Erik S. Gellman, Associate Professor of History, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, who observes:
“Schapiro documented the civil rights movement with care and intimacy, unlike others who arrived at a pivotal moment and left once they got the shot.”
Activists and Icons: The Photographs of Steve Schapiro is a project of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center. All images © Steve Schapiro courtesy of Fahey Klein Gallery.
Supporting Sponsors: Brenda and Lance Feis; Illinois Arts Council Agency; David C. and Sarajean Ruttenberg Arts Foundation; Women’s Leadership Committee of Illinois Holocaust Museum.
Additional Funders: Brian and Gail Boorstein; The Golder Family Foundation supports all Illinois Holocaust Museum special exhibitions.
Community Partner: Jewish Council on Urban Affairs.
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