This year, the luncheon honors Earlie Hudnall, Jr., the 2020 Texas State Visual Artist, 2D. Hudnall has been an integral member of the photographic community in Houston, known for his artistic and seamless documentation of the city's African American communities, contributing to its historical and cultural fingerprint. Hudnall's prints reside in the permanent collections of both the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and the Smithsonian.
The Full Frame luncheon will feature a vibrant tribute to Hudnall, followed by a casual interview with the photographer about his life's work. His remarks will be accompanied by a custom menu prepared by the awarded chefs of Brennan's. A silent auction featuring a selection of art works, experiences, and items will accompany the luncheon.
Growing up in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Earlie Hudnall, Jr. learned the importance of community and culture. After serving as a Marine in the Vietnam War, he moved to Houston to study art at Texas Southern University. There, he met Dr. John Biggers, the notable painter, muralist, and art educator, who became his mentor. While at Texas Southern, Hudnall was hired by Dr. Thomas Freeman, professor of philosophy, Director of the TSU Debate Team, and Director of the Model Cities Program on campus. His task was to photograph in depth those communities impacted by this federal program inspired by President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society and War on Poverty.
Dr. Freeman had a vision for the documentation required for this massive project. Hudnall understood this vision completely, and as a result the young photographer was free to explore and document the daily lives of African Americans in Houston. The countless days that he spent with fellow photographer Ray Carrington photographing families, individuals, elders, and children in the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Wards had a lasting impact upon him as an artist. Hudnall has continued to photograph these same communities throughout his career, and has produced some of his strongest work from these historic areas of Houston. Children and the elderly continue to be his favorite subject.
Support for the Literacy Through Photography learning program is available in several ways. Gifts of $1,750 and above will be acknowledged in the luncheon program and on the learning program website. Gifts of $2,750 and above will receive logo recognition in the luncheon program and acknowledgement as a learning program sponsor on all Literacy Through Photography printed and electronic publications. If you are unable to attend, a donation of any amount is appreciated.
Literacy Through Photography has served the greater Houston community since 1990 impacting over 3,000 students annually, primarily in Title 1 schools. The innovative program combines creative writing, visual literacy, and photography to improve student self-expression and critical thinking.
More information about the Literacy Through Photography Learning Program may be found here.
April M. Frazier, Director of Advancement, FotoFest Literacy Through Photography
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