Dona Ann McAdams, a renowned photographer, has spent over four decades immortalizing American culture through her unique lens. Armed with a Leica M2 camera since 1975, McAdams has become famous for her impeccable timing, capturing moments of resistance, protest, and empowered agency. Her dedication to community and analogue photography has led her to bring the art form into small, underserved communities, such as the South Bronx and southern Appalachia.
McAdams’ work transcends traditional photography; she is also a collage artist who meticulously works with time and light. Her commitment to empowering individuals extends beyond capturing their images. She has inspired residents of adult homes, shelters, mountain towns, and horse tracks to take control of their narratives by creating their own photographs. Her efforts have left an indelible mark on these communities, fostering a sense of agency and creativity.
Throughout her illustrious career, McAdams has captured pivotal moments in history, including the gay liberation movement and the vibrant performance art scene of the 1980s and 90s. Her interactions with intellectual and artistic individuals have informed her work, allowing her to document not only grand events but also the subtle nuances of everyday life. McAdams' ability to capture these small moments speaks to her talent for creating utopian images that resonate with viewers.
One of McAdams' notable contributions to the world of photography is her forthcoming book, "Black Box: A Photographic Memoir," published by Saint Lucy Books. The publication will feature photographs taken over five decades, from 1974 to 2024, and is set to complement an exhibition at Pratt Manhattan Gallery in 2025. Her photographs are often accompanied by personal reflections that read like prose poems, offering an introspective glimpse into the stories behind each image.
"Who the fuck do you think you are?” Often they just looked away. People would say: “Don’t do that!” or “You clean up nice,” or “You should wear dresses more often” – Dona Ann McAdams
McAdams’ work challenges societal norms and expectations, as demonstrated in her quote. Her photographs do not merely capture images; they provoke thought and challenge perceptions. Her unique perspective allows her to convey stories that might otherwise remain untold.