Fred W. McDarrah (1926-2007)
Craig Rodwell, founder, Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookstore, New York, New York, October 14, 1969
Gelatin Silver Print

Center for Photography at Woodstock presents: Pride and Protest

Written by Lauren Levesque

The Center for Photography at Woodstock presents the exhibition Pride and Protest: Photographs by Fred W. McDarrah. This fantastic exhibition captivates its audience with a collection of photographs taken in New York City between 1959 and 1993. At its core, the center of this exhibition is about the compounding history of gay and lesbian visibility in the context of the Civil Rights Protests that individuals were engaging in during this time period. The photographs were meticulously selected by Vince Aletti, a prominent photography critic and author, ensuring the highest quality and relevance. The exhibition will open on the 1st of June and continue till the 1st of September 2024.

The above photograph shows McDarrah’s comedic side. Everything about the picture is playful; the decision to stand outside a bookstore, hold a piece of paper similar to a bookmark, and have the words say, ‘Gay is Good’ allows the viewer to know immediately what the main idea of the image is and how the artist is using techniques to ensure that the viewers reach the same conclusion that he is thinking of. In addition, the photograph is crisp and clean, and it does not reveal much of the man's personality in front of the lens. The viewer is exposed to a simple pinstripe shirt and a manicured haircut; however, much is left to the imagination.

Fred W. McDarrah (1926-2007)
Untitled (Participants at the Sixth Annual Christopher Street Gay Liberation Day March), New York, New York, June 29, 1975
Gelatin Silver Print

‘Untitled (Participants at the Sixth Annual Christopher Street Gay Liberation Day March)’ promotes excitement, chaos, and passion. All of the individuals captured in the lens seem to be having the time of their lives. They pose for the camera, laugh, and celebrate the annual Gay Liberation Day March, which was still relatively new at the time. The image captures nostalgia and a feeling of acceptance in which every person can be the most beautiful and raw version of themselves.

Fred W. McDarrah (1926-2007)
Untitled (Parade-goers during the Sixth Annual Gay Liberation Day March), New York, New York, June 29, 1975
Gelatin Silver Print

‘Untitled (Parade goers at the Sixth Annual Christopher Street Gay Liberation Day March)’ is an image that can evoke an array of emotions. The two mothers in front of the frame holding and carrying signs throughout the parade add crucial support. The photograph shows the wit of New York, especially how no loving mother will allow themselves or their child to feel constricted or closeted. Having the parade be a balanced mix of parents, children, and gay individuals creates a sense of community that sexuality is to each individual's desire, and the need for kindness and acceptance of people is what permits essential moments in time.

Learn more about Pride and Protest