Celebrating Black Photographers

Sunday, February 21, 2021

A few days ago, as I was scanning my collection of photo essay books, taking note of the publishers of those impressive texts, I came across the gem depicted above: Viewfinders. Although a historic testament to talented black women and not a photographic anthology, I found myself opening it up this morning. In flipping through the pages, I tried to remember when I bought this book and whether I had ever taken the time to read it, cover to cover.

In any event, my fingers rested upon a page that relayed a brief (and clearly very incomplete) narrative of Inge Hardison. I was drawn to her name, clearly of Germanic origin, and a few phrases stuck out: “Art Students League” (where my mother - and Lenny - actually studied for a little while) and “historic portraits of black leaders.” I decided to find out more about her. Actually, I took a very deep breath before doing so because, as I am finding out, a lot of people I am seeking lately, I have missed out on meeting due to their having passed away. (I am still upset about Ken Hansen). It turns out (Ruth) Inge Hardison did pass on, in 2016, at the age of 102. I was able to find a news feature: Inge Hardison. It was simply inspiring. It has pushed me in a way that I think I need to be pushed.

I shared the video with some of my friends and with my parents. I tried to find photographs taken by her but was more successful in setting my eyes upon some of her wonderful sculpture portraits. If I still had a full time job, I’d be seeking to buy her artwork, at least one piece. I feel as though I often learn things so late in the game. But perhaps I shouldn’t see it that way anymore. Perhaps I just need to learn to be grateful to know of her now and to share what I know and to take her words to heart: “Look into yourself and see what you really want to do. And look it in the face without any fear. And allow yourself to see how it would feel if you gave yourself to it and allowed it to happen.”