Bankhead Presents: An Evening With Michael Collopy

Engaging. Storytelling. Exploration.

Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 7:30PM

Michael Collopy, one of the world’s preeminent portrait photographers, will share what he has learned photographing some of the world’s most influential individuals. In his presentation, Collopy will discuss the art of portrait photography, the power of photojournalism to move us, and how he has been inspired in his advocacy by the people he has photographed. He will illustrate his talk with slides of select portraits in an engaging and insightful conversation. Be inspired by this photographer whose work is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever picked up a news magazine.

Collopy has gained global recognition for his commissioned photographs of hundreds of public figures, including seven United States presidents, 41 Nobel Laureates, and top talent from the world of entertainment, including George Clooney, Penelope Cruz, Clint Eastwood, Paul McCartney, B.B. King, the Rolling Stones, and Frank Sinatra, to name just a few. His iconic photos of Mother Teresa in her Calcutta Mission have come to symbolize her work and humanity. Other iconic luminaries Collopy has photographed include Nelson Mandela and the Dalai Lama.

Michael Collopy uses the art of portrait photography to advocate for peace and social justice. Collections of his photos published in books include Architects of Peace and Works of Love Are Works of Peace. His latest book, Courage, profiles people “who have exemplified bravery through specific acts of courage” – Maya Angelou, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Jane Goodall, among others. Proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Architects of Peace Foundation.