LIMITED EDITION

‘Pieces of a Man’ brings together 25 years of street photographs by noted American photographer Jamel Shabazz. “Beginning in Brooklyn’s tight-knit neighborhoods, including his own, Jamel Shabazz captured a true reflection of people of color now revered as a form of social commentary. His work resonates around the world because it is authentic. He has the authority to speak for us and yet he maintains genuine humility and respect for his people. From the streets of Brooklyn to Europe to Africa, Jamel’s work is inclusive and compassionate without imposing his views on how people should represent themselves. He gives his subjects control over their own image, and in that you see the dignity that he sees in them, turning everyday people into icons. While some celebrate an era or style, Jamel reminds us to celebrate the people, not just the image.”

Jamel Shabazz was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. At the age of fifteen, he picked up his first camera and started to document his peers. Inspired by photographers Leonard Freed, James Van Der Zee, and Gordon Parks, he was marveled with their documentation of the African American community. In 1980 as a concerned photographer with a clear vision he embarked on a mission to extensively document various aspects of life in New York City, from youth culture to a wide range of social conditions. Due to its spontaneity and uniqueness, the streets and subway system became backdrops for many of his photographs.

“Since first embracing the craft of photography some three decades ago, I had a determined idea to create a visual record of my life’s journey. From my humble beginnings in the concrete streets of New York City, I would carry my Canon AE 1 SLR out and at the ready everywhere I would go, armed with advice that my photographer father gave me. That ritual would become a vital part of my creative process. I worked with both traditional black and white and color film. Since 2005, I have developed a deep appreciation for digital photography, and I now create much of my new images using this format. My intrigue with political and social issues propelled me to create themes centered on poverty, family, and the plight of everyday people. During my odyssey, I have documented a wide range of diverse subjects from youth culture, fashion trends, political protests, war veterans, and various social and political organizations. My foundation is rooted in my sincere desire to make a significant contribution to the preservation of world history and culture. The camera has served as the compass that has navigated me during my life and the images, I have been blessed to create are the results of my findings, while on this journey.”

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