February 11, 2005 - MPR’s Dan Olson reports on a VocalEssence tribute to artist Gordon Parks. Report includes numerous commentaries. African American photographer, composer, writer and Hollywood filmmaker Gordon Parks didn't buy his first camera and roll of film in Minnesota, but he had his first photographic show here. And the Twin Cities is where Parks got his first job playing piano and where his first musical compositions were performed. Parks is a Kansas native who spent his teen and early adult years in Minnesota. Now in his 90's Parks lives in New York City. His remarkable life story is told at the Ordway Theater as part of the VocalEssence Witness series.
November 25, 1996 - A Westminster Town Hall Forum presentation by former St. Paul resident Gordon Parks. Writer, photographer and artist Gordon Parks speaking at Westminster Town Hall Forum in downtown Minneapolis. Parks address was titled “A Life of Art.” Parks recalls his family, time in St. Paul, and his art. Following the speech, Parks answers audience questions.
June 7, 1996 - MPR’s John Rabe talks with Gordon Parks about his influential film career. Parks discusses “The Learning Tree,” amongst other works.
June 17, 1980 - Writer, photographer and artist Gordon Parks speaking at Our Creative Community conference at the Spring Hill Center in Wayzata, Minnesota. Parks address was titled “Universality in Art.” Subjects of speech included his time in Minnesota, race issues, the Civil Rights movement, and education.