Nov 2, 2012
Photo by Steve McCurry
Vancouver, BC – Steve McCurry, the famed photojournalist behind the iconic National Geographic “Afghan Girl” image, will visit Langara next week as part of the College’s Photography Masters Series.
Perhaps best known for his inspiring portrait work, the veteran photojournalist has also covered an array of armed conflicts, from the Soviet invasion of Pakistan to the Gulf War, producing images that have been featured in newspapers and magazines around the world. He has also been honoured with a wealth of prestigious awards for his work, including the Robert Capa Gold Medal and a record four first place awards from the World Press Photo contest.
“What is important to my work is the individual picture,” McCurry states on his website. “I photograph stories on assignment, and of course they have to be put together coherently. But what matters most is that each picture stands on its own, with it’s own place and feeling.”
McCurry’s most recognized portrait – the “Afghan Girl” – immortalized the stirring green eyes of a 12-year-old girl in a refugee camp on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The image eventually became the cover of the June 1985 issue of National Geographic and has been named as “the most recognized photograph” in the history of the magazine, in addition to becoming one of the most widely reproduced photos in the world.
The Photography Masters Series has welcomed a variety of high profile speakers since it began in 2011, including National Geographic photographer Greg Girard, social documentary photographer Phil Borges, digital media specialist John Paul Caponigro, and Canadian gallerist Stephen Bulger.
McCurry will speak at the College on November 8, from 7:00 pm. For more information on attending call Jim Balderston at 604.323.5322, or email jbalderston@langara.bc.ca.
Cost:
$35 for students and CAPIC members
$45 for general public
Learn more.
Annie Mullins
Communications Officer
Langara College
604.323.5058
amullins@langara.bc.ca