ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Gus Bennett is a highly accomplished professional photographer with a career spanning over four decades. He is renowned for his expertise in fine art, portrait, and entertainment photography, making him a sought-after artist in his field.
Bennett's work has graced the covers and pages of esteemed magazines such as Essence, Ebony, Jet, UPSCALE, TRIBE, and European Vogue showcasing his ability to capture captivating and visually stunning images. Notably, his photographs were featured in ad campaigns on the New Orleans’s Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Bus line, advocating an end to domestic violence among women and children.
In recognition of his exceptional achievements and contributions to the arts, Bennett has received several prestigious awards and distinctions throughout his career. In 2016, The Urban League of Greater New Orleans honored him with the "Essence of New Orleans" award for his role in bridging communities through the arts. Additionally, he was presented with the "Keeper of the Flame" award by the Mardi Gras Indian Council of New Orleans for his documentary series on past and present Mardi Gras Indian chiefs. Selected images from his critically acclaimed series "Black Code" were selected for the 2016 Louisiana Photography Biennial … one of them featured prominently on the poster.
Bennett's past personal projects reflect his commitment to exploring diverse narratives and capturing powerful imagery. "Organic Watermarks" documents individuals and communities affected by Hurricane Katrina, while "Patty Cake" celebrates the beauty and magic of little black girls. "Saints and Sinners" delves into the black spiritual identity, and "A Room in My Mother's House" explores the beauty and sanctity of the black female form and pregnancy.
Continuing his impressive portfolio, Bennett has served as an official photographer for the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans for more than 21 years. Furthermore, his "New Orleans People Project" campaign has garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of the remarkable citizens of New Orleans, highlighting their stories and contributions to the city's rich cultural fabric.
Through his extensive body of work and dedication to capturing the essence of diverse subjects and communities, Gus Bennett has established himself as an exceptional photographer whose talent and artistic vision continue to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact.