Event Details
Photojournalist and author talks Wed, Aug 5, 6-8pm, on view July 15 through August 16
World renowned photojournalist, David Burnett, will share firsthand stories from his assignment for TIME magazine, reflect on what it was like to be a young photographer witnessing history unfold, and discuss the extraordinary atmosphere and optimism that defined the Apollo 11 launch and the summer of 1969. His presentation will offer a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on one of the most iconic moments of the twentieth century.
"I was 22 years old and on assignment. Aware that the best "rocket" photographers in the world would be shooting the launch, I pitched to my TIME editor that since big crowds were expected, I would photograph the spectators. Looking back, I'm grateful I followed that instinct. The launch lasted only a few moments, but the hope, anticipation, and wonder on those faces told a much larger story. "- David Burnett
Burnett is one of the world's most respected documentary photographers. During a career spanning more than five decades, he has photographed every U.S. president from John F. Kennedy through Barack Obama, covered wars, revolutions, Olympic Games, political campaigns, and many of the defining events of the modern era for publications including TIME, Life, National Geographic, and The New York Times Magazine. A co-founder of Contact Press Images, Burnett's photographs are held in museum and private collections around the world and are celebrated for their humanity, visual storytelling, and enduring historical significance.
The event will also include a book reading from Sally Ashton, Santa Clara County Poet Laureate Emerita, from her new book, Going To The Moon. Ashton's prose provides a lyrical companion to Burnett's photographs, exploring themes of wonder, ambition, memory, and discovery.
Free
Presented by Whitney Modern Contemporary Art Gallery.