Philbrook Presents Works by Legendary Photographer Gordon Parks
"Homeward to the Prairie I Come" opens February 11, 2026
“I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs.”
One of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was also renowned as a poet, filmmaker, author, composer, and activist. He is best known for his photojournalism from the 1940s to the 1970s that documented American life and culture, particularly the experiences of African Americans and the Civil Rights Movement.
“Presenting this important work by Gordon Parks not only affirms our commitment to world-class exhibitions but also continues our ongoing work to engage with our broader community and partners,” says Philbrook CEO and President Megan Whittaker Nesbit.
Highlighting the life and career of Parks, Homeward to the Prairie I Come showcases poetry and prose by the artist alongside images from his gift to Kansas State University that convey a wide range of artistic ideas. The exhibition features more than seventy photographs, including images captured by Parks for photojournalism and fashion assignments at LIFE magazine, striking portraits of prominent figures such as Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, as well as examples of his experimental photography.
“Visitors to the exhibition will experience the multifaceted work of Parks and discover how the visionary artist used different forms of art to tell deeply human stories and highlight social injustice,” says Guest Exhibition Curator Jessica Provencher. “Whether you are drawn to photography, poetry, or film, you’ll find powerful images and stories in this exhibition that speak to both the pain and beauty of the human experience—and to Parks’ lasting impact.”
Alongside the works on loan from the Beach Museum will be a recent Philbrook acquisition, Park’s iconic 1942 photograph, American Gothic, a reimagining of Grant Wood’s 1930 painting of the same name.
A robust schedule of programming and community partnerships will support this exhibition with film screenings, town hall discussions, curator tours, and more.
Homeward to the Prairie I Come: Gordon Parks Photographs from the Beach Museum of Art is organized by the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, Kansas State University. Generous support provided by Art Bridges.
