April 28, 2009

Gordon Parks family donates commemorative bust to WSU

WSU News Services

A bronze bust of the late Gordon Parks has been donated to Wichita State University by Parks' daughter, Toni Parks.

The bust was presented to WSU on Wednesday, April 22, by Gordon Parks' son, David Parks.

Bust of Gordon Parks

Bust of Gordon Parks

Accepting the bust on behalf of the university was Ted Ayres, vice president and general counsel.

WSU President Don Beggs also attended the April 22 ceremony held at Gordon Parks Academy.

Jonas Perkins was the sculptor of the busts. A display case will house the Gordon Parks bust at Gordon Parks Academy.

A location for the Parks bust is still to be determined at WSU.

In 2008, Wichita State acquired the collected papers of famed photographer, filmmaker, writer and composer Gordon Parks.

With this unique collection, Wichita State and the community are poised to deepen their understanding of and interaction with Parks' life experience and genius.

Gordon Parks

Gordon Parks

Gordon Roger Alexander Buchannan Parks (Nov. 30, 1912-March 7, 2006) was a groundbreaking American photographer, musician, poet, novelist, journalist, activist and film director.

He is best remembered for his photo essays for Life magazine, his many books, including "The Learning Tree," and as director of the 1971 film "Shaft."