Image

Ernest C. Withers

Isaac Hayes in his Stax Office

Description

Maker

Ernest C. Withers (American, 1922-2007)
Panopticon Gallery, publisher

Title

Isaac Hayes in his Stax Office
The Memphis Blues Again

Year

1970s

Medium

Materials/Techniques

Techniques

Supports

Dimensions

35.4 x 27.9 cm (13 15/16 x 11 inches) (sheet)

Signature / Inscription / Marks

each signed verso

Identification

Edition

3/35

Credit / Object Number

Credit

Helen M. Danforth Acquisition Fund

Object Number

2007.48.3.10

Type

Exhibition History

Exhibition History

Facing Artists
Twentieth Century Portraits from the Collection
Feb 27, 2009 – Jul 31, 2009

Label copy

Ernest Withers was a Memphis-based photographer who captured some of the most historic moments in the civil rights movement, including appearances by

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As one of the first African-American policemen in Memphis, Withers had special access to the Beale Street clubs that hosted the vital

blues scene, which he documented for many years. Nat Dee Williams, one of the first African American disc jockeys, also connected him with musicians. Soul icon

Isaac Hayes (American, 1942-2008), having won an Academy Award in 1971 for his theme song to Gordon Park’s film Shaft, was at the height of his career at

the time of this photograph. His flamboyant shirt and distinctive office exude all the flash and smoothness for which he was known.

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Tombstone

Ernest C. Withers (American, 1922-2007)
Panopticon Gallery, publisher
Isaac Hayes in his Stax Office; The Memphis Blues Again, 1970s
Portfolio of ten gelatin silver prints
35.4 x 27.9 cm (13 15/16 x 11 inches) (sheet)
Helen M. Danforth Acquisition Fund 2007.48.3.10

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