The Eddie Adams Workshop: What a Ride!
Last week, I returned from my *28th consecutive Eddie Adams Workshop. I use the asterisk, as last year, I was only able to attend for one one day due to a death in the family. And it made me realize just how special the workshop is…was…and will continue to be for so many people. The sheer volume of love and dedication devoted to the workshop by its staff is mind boggling.
About 40 years ago, Eddie Adams had a vision. To create an environment where young photographers yearning to get into the business would have an opportunity to mingle amongst and learn from some of the greatest leaders in the industry at a quiet and unassuming barn in the middle of the Catskills. And every year, 100 students would be accepted solely on the merit of their portfolio and it would be tuition free! There really is no other workshop like it in the world.
This year was especially significant. I can unequivocally state, it was the most “inclusive” regarding issues of concern in our industry such as harassment, diversity, people of color and gender balance and efforts to address and correct them. Perhaps this was a result of troubling accusations regarding our industry in recent years, but I am hoping that was rather due to an acknowledgment of the much needed changes in our times finally being implemented. And to those who are experiencing and calling out these injustices, please continue to do so. The time for change is now!
Over my last 28 years of attending, I also had the great pleasure of meeting so many giants of our craft; Gordon Parks, Carl Mydans, Joe Rosenthal, Nick Ut…the list is endless. I had the great fortune of watching students grow and become industry giants of their own including almost a dozen Pulitzer winners. And I have been rejuvenated by the enthusiasm of 2,800 new nieces and nephews whom I have stayed in contact with over the years. But through this journey, I have also realized that all good things must come to an end, and it is now time for me to move on and let the next generation of photojournalists carry that much needed torch to shine a light in all of the darkest corners of the world.
I am stepping down as a member of the Board of Directors of the Eddie Adams Workshop. (Talk about burying the lead) I have informed Alyssa Adams of my decision, and I cannot thank her enough for her passion and commitment to the workshop, and personally, for the love and care she has shown to the Colton Family (Sandy, Jay, Irene and myself) over all of these years. There is no one more dedicated to the advancement of photojournalism than Alyssa. So while I am at it, thank you to workshop producer Mirjam Evers and to all of the previous producers. Thank you Mark Suban, William Pekala and Nikon for your continued and unwavering support since the very first year. And thank you to all of the sponsors. Your generosity and commitment is what makes the workshop possible. A huge thanks to all of the volunteers who give so much of your time, energy and love. Your spirit is palpable. And lastly, thank you to all of the 3,100 students who walked through those barn doors where the words “You Have Arrived” welcomed you to the “Adams Family.” You are all now part of my family. (Uncle Jimmy expects to still hear from you!)
I am leaving with nothing but fond memories in my heart that will last a lifetime. Some of you may know, that I have rediscovered my love for pottery, so I will be spending more of my time doing that as I ease into the “Autumn” of my years. So to everyone I had the great pleasure of meeting during those 28 years, thank you! And to all the former, current and future attendees of the workshop, I can think of no greater words to leave you with than those of the most loving photojournalist I know, Mr. John. H. White; “Keep in flight!”
I love you all!
Uncle Jimmy
