Fahey/Klein Gallery is presenting "Ernest Withers: I'll Take You There," a compelling exhibition that runs through September 4th, 2021, showcasing the remarkable photographic work of Ernest C. Withers. The exhibition is hosted in conjunction with his recently published book, "The Revolution in Black and White" (CityFiles Press), creating a comprehensive record of African American life in the South during the transformative mid-20th century.
Withers' extraordinary body of work captures the essence of a pivotal era in American history, documenting everything from the vibrant culture of Beale Street to intimate family life in Memphis. His photographs chronicle the rise of Rock 'n' Roll and R&B music, while simultaneously providing an unflinching record of the Civil Rights movement during a time of radical social change. The exhibition presents a visual narrative that encompasses both the monumental and the everyday moments that defined this crucial period.
"Photography is a collection of memories. One who is trained in photography knows that," Withers once reflected on his work. "Instinctively, people who have an occupation know what they ought to do. You call the fireman to put out the fire; you call the police to solve a police problem; and people who are news people and journalists are collectors and recorders of present evidence, which after a given length of time—days, months, years—becomes history."
Withers documented a history that continues to resonate powerfully today, capturing the momentous and often dangerous upheaval of America's civil rights movement across the South from the late 1940s through the 1960s. Beyond his documentation of those fighting courageously for racial justice and equity, Withers gained widespread acclaim for his broader capture of the African American experience, creating a singular and invaluable record of day-to-day life in his effort to better illustrate and understand Southern life during this crucial era.
His vast photographic archive includes compelling images of famous Memphians who brought Soul, Rock 'n' Roll, and the Blues into the white mainstream music scene, fundamentally changing American culture. From blues performances to baseball games, high school proms and football games to funerals and protest marches, Withers was consistently present with camera in hand, documenting moments both mundane and historically significant. The confidence and technical skill he developed while working in the juke joints of Beale Street and on assignment for various newspapers served him exceptionally well when historic events unfolded around him.
Withers demonstrated remarkable courage throughout his career, remaining fearless in the face of intimidation and consistently risking life and limb to capture the perfect shot. His dedication to documenting truth often placed him in dangerous situations, particularly during civil rights demonstrations and protests where tensions ran high and violence was a constant threat.
Dr. Ernest C. Withers, Sr. (1922-2007), a native of Memphis, Tennessee, achieved international acclaim as a photojournalist whose work has left an indelible mark on American visual history. His photographs have been published extensively in prestigious publications including the New York Times, Washington Post, Time, Life, Jet, and Ebony magazines. His well-known and widely recognized images comprise an unequaled time capsule of the heartland of mid-century America, preserving moments that might otherwise have been lost to history.
Withers' photographs are housed in the permanent collection of The Smithsonian Institution and other esteemed cultural institutions across the United States, ensuring that his visual legacy will continue to educate and inspire future generations. The accompanying book, "Revolution in Black and White: Photographs of the Civil Rights Era by Ernest C. Withers" (CityFiles Press, 288 pages; $50), is available for purchase at the gallery while supplies last. The exhibition is located at Fahey/Klein Gallery, 148 North La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036, and visitors can find more information at www.faheyklein.com.
