Stephen Shames: A Lifetime in Photography

Stephen Shames has a unique narrative voice. Approaching his subjects with empathy and humanity, rather than sensationalism, Stephen is able to embed himself and create work about social issues that tell important stories that might not otherwise get seen and heard. In the process, he has inspired a generation of photographers, and contributed to making real change in the world. Here are two quotes that encapsulate the importance of Stephen’s work:

“Stephen Shames is a tremendous asset to the disadvantaged children of this nation….His photographs have helped bring the plight of poor children to the mainstream public.” ~Marian Wright Edelman

“In trying to promote social change by arousing public opinion, Mr. Shames follows in the honored tradition of Jacob Riis and Lewis Hine.” ~The New York Times

In this presentation, through showing his remarkable body of work, Stephen will discuss his approach to visual storytelling, and doing work that makes a difference.

A Q&A and a book signing will follow the presentation.

This free, in-person event will be held at SVA. Seating is limited. Registration is required.

***This presentation is part of the speaker series, Picturing Resistance: Bearing Witness, and Amplifying Voices and Visibility Through Photography, presented by the DEVELOP Photography Newsletter.

Speaker Bio: Stephen ShamesStephen Shames has had a long, distinguished career as a photojournalist. He has created award-winning photo essays on social issues for the media, foundations, advocacy organizations, and museums.

The author of dozens of photography books and zines, and the winner of countless major exhibitions, fellowships, grants, and awards, Shames' work is in the permanent collections of forty three different museums and collections as widely varied as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, ICP, the Schomberg Center, the Native American Hall of Fame, The Elton John Foundation, The Ford Foundation, and the George Eastman Museum.

His current book, Stephen Shames: a Life in Photography is published by Kehrer Verlag.*We will have some copies of Stephen’s book on hand for you to purchase and get signed.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

SVA Masters in Photography, West 21st Street, 136 West 21st Street, New York, United States