A Relentless Force
There’s a portrait that I pass every day while walking the halls of the League, one that hangs proudly between two offices on our top floor. It features a man with his eyes closed, playing what seems like a sweet melody on the cello.
He’s casual, in his bare feet. Serene, taking his time. Feeling the music.
Next to him — leaning on his shoulder — is his woman. Eyes closed. At peace. Letting the melody take over. Letting it live.
That portrait, while simple in description, is one of the most compelling I’ve ever seen. Visually stunning in its succinctness. Speaking simultaneously of black love and the lordly power of music. It tells a story. Makes you wonder about its history.
The photographer? Gordon Parks.
