FMoPA To Present 'Through The Lens Of Conflict: Vietnam Press Photos'

TAMPA, FL — Florida Museum of Photographic Arts will open present the the exhibition, "Through the Lens of Conflict: Vietnam Press Photographs" from the Dr. Robert L. Drapkin Collection, July 8 to Oct. 23.

Drapkin has amassed an extensive collection of press photographs spanning the Vietnam War. These images capture the conflict and tragedy of this challenging part of American history.

The exhibition will explore the photographs, how they were created, and experiences through a local context.

Drapkin’s book, “Understanding the American War in Vietnam,” will accompany the exhibition. With the combination of photos and textual backup, the collection will help tell the war’s history from multiple perspectives.

The exhibitors hope to generate discussion among Vietnam veterans and the local Vietnamese community, driving together the two circles of people into an understanding and civil interaction.

In addition, it will also explore the ties and similarities of the current conflict of development and expansion in Europe.

“This exhibition is photojournalistic documentation of a tumultuous conflict and emotionally charged testimony to common but incomplete understandings of war and conflict in general,” - says Zora Carrier, executive director of the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts.

Proceeds from the exhibition and book sales will benefit the Rory Peck Trust, making conflict training in hostile environments available to photographers covering conflict at their own risk.

The museum is located at 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa.

Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and noon to 7 p.m. Friday.

Admission is free for museum members, $10 for adults and $8 for students, military and seniors.