Documentary photographer Philip Gould has dedicated his career to capturing the essence of Louisiana, a place he describes as a land of deep-rooted culture and vibrant community. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Gould’s journey began when he was gifted a camera at the age of 20. This pivotal moment in 1971 ignited his passion for photography, leading him to pursue a degree in photojournalism at San Jose State University.
Gould’s professional career took off in 1974 when he accepted a position with The Daily Iberian in New Iberia. He considered it “the best first job a photographer could hope for,” as it allowed him the creative freedom to capture the essence of daily life in a town with limited news coverage. This opportunity laid the groundwork for a prolific career spanning over five decades, during which he has produced numerous exhibitions and authored more than 20 books.
Returning to Louisiana in 1978, Gould felt a strong connection to the region’s Cajun culture and its unique sense of community. “I found that Louisiana had a wonderful sense of rootedness,” he said, highlighting the deep ties that locals have to their heritage. This connection inspired his first book, “Les Cadiens D’Asteur: Today’s Cajuns,” released in 1980, which became a traveling exhibit and showcased the lives of contemporary Cajuns.
Gould’s Expansive Body of Work
Over the years, Gould’s work has been displayed in prestigious venues such as the Field Museum of Natural History and the New Orleans Museum of Art. His diverse portfolio includes books like “Ghosts of Good Times,” which documents abandoned dance halls in southern Louisiana, and “Bridging the Mississippi,” an exploration of every bridge crossing the Mississippi River. His latest project, “Louisiana from the Sky,” set to be published by UL Press on December 9, 2023, offers a unique aerial perspective of the Bayou State through drone photography.
Gould’s vision for this collection stems from his childhood experiences in California, where he was accustomed to dramatic mountain landscapes. He initially perceived Louisiana’s flat terrain as lacking visual impact. “You really can’t see Louisiana in its full glory and potential from the ground,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of aerial views to appreciate the landscape’s true character.
Impact on Louisiana’s Cultural Narrative
Many in the art community recognize Gould’s work as vital to preserving and showcasing Louisiana’s cultural heritage. Mark Tullos, executive director at the LSU Museum of Art, recalls their first meeting in 2002. He vividly remembered Gould documenting the lively atmosphere at a festival, his dedication evident as he climbed a 14-foot ladder for the perfect shot. “He’s a master of capturing marvelous images,” Tullos said, likening Gould to an artist who embodies the spirit of Louisiana.
According to Michael Martin, a history professor at the University of Louisiana, Gould’s photography transcends mere documentation. “You can hear the music. You can feel the dance floor kind of bouncing up and down,” he explained, noting that Gould’s images evoke a sense of place that resonates with viewers, regardless of their background.
With his lens, Gould transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, reminding the people of south Louisiana of their rich identity. His work not only preserves memories but also celebrates the vibrancy and resilience of a culture that continues to thrive. Through decades of dedication, Gould has become a vital storyteller, capturing the heart and soul of a region that has profoundly shaped his artistic vision.
