The WSU Museum of Art will exhibit “Countdown to Eternity: Photographs of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” by photojournalist Benedict J. Fernandez from Jan.9 to Feb. 12. A free public reception will be 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, in the museum gallery, followed by Fernandez’s slide show/lecture/question and answer forum “Conscience: The Ultimate Weapon” at 7 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center auditorium.
Internationally renowned photographer Fernandez began his photography career documenting protests against the Vietnam War. His photos of protesters and civil rights leaders of the time appeared throughout the 1960s in major publications. His photos garnered major accolades, culminating in his book “In Opposition: Images of American Dissent in the Sixties” (1968). He is widely considered the premier documentary photographer of the Civil Rights Movement.
“Countdown to Eternity: Photographs of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” includes more than 70 photographs and provides a stirring account of the events surrounding King throughout the year before his assassination. In addition, photographs of Julian Bond, Jesse Jackson, Robert Kennedy, Andrew Young and other civil rights activists of the time contribute to the blend of historic images.
Recipients of the Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Service Awards will be announced at 6 p.m. during Fernandez’s reception. The annual awards recognize individuals who exemplify King’s ideals.
Throughout the day (Jan. 16) events will be held in honor of King. The Museum of Art looks at Martin Luther King Jr. Day not as a day off, but rather as a “day on,” said Chris Bruce, museum director.
For more information, visit the WSU Museum of Art website at www.wsu.edu/artmuse.
