“Capturing History: A Fireside Conversation on Roosevelt-Era Photography – January 12”

Historian Paul Sparrow will lead a Fireside Chat focusing on two notable photographers from the Roosevelt era, Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange, at 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 12, in the fireplace section at the Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. The event will also be broadcast live online through Zoom.

During the mid-20th century, photography arose as a significant new art medium. No two individuals captured the Roosevelt era more adeptly, and from vastly different perspectives, than Adams and Lange. Sparrow’s talk, “Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange: Images of America 1930-1950,” will emphasize the unique techniques of the two artists as well as their surprising resemblances.

“Lange was a documentarian, especially renowned for her portrayals of the Great Depression, while Adams was the master of the spectacular nature photograph, impeccably composed and printed,” stated Sparrow. “What many don’t realize is that they were close friends and both depicted the grim realities of the Japanese internment camps during World War II, producing images that are both startling and uplifting.”

Sparrow serves as the former director of the FDR Presidential Library and Museum.

Seating is limited; registration is mandatory. At the time of registration, attendees will be asked to choose between in-person or online participation. To register, please visit lewes.lib.de.us or call 302-645-2733.