The American Photography Archives Group (APAG) announced the recipients of its first annual awards for the years 2023-2024. These awards recognized outstanding contributions to photography and archival preservation and celebrated APAG members who demonstrated excellence in and a commitment to creating and preserving the rich history of photography. The Beacon Award was awarded to a photographer or archivist who had recently made a significant contribution to the field of photography.
APAG LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN PHOTOGRAPHY
This year, APAG honored two exceptional photographers with its Lifetime Achievement Award in Photography, celebrating their enduring contributions to photography.
Neal Slavin, a renowned photographer whose work has captivated audiences and critics alike, was recognized for his distinctive approach to group portraiture and his profound impact on the photographic community.
Chester Higgins, whose compelling images capture the essence of the human spirit and culture, also received this prestigious award. Along with his decades-long career as a photographer for the New York Times, his work provided invaluable insights into the African diaspora. It has been instrumental in broadening our understanding of cultural identity through photography.
APAG LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN ARCHIVE MANAGEMENT
APAG was also pleased to announce the Lifetime Achievement Award in Archive Management, acknowledging significant contributions to preserving and promoting photography archives.
The Arthur Rothstein Legacy Project, managed by Annie Rothstein Segan and Brodie Hefner, was recognized for its unwavering and vigorous dedication to preserving and promoting the legacy of Arthur Rothstein, recognized as one of America’s premier photographers. Annie and Brodie’s creative and wide-ranging archival efforts ensured Rothstein’s iconic imagery continued to enlighten and inspire.
The Estate of Tseng Kwong Chi, managed by Muna Tseng and Chris Gray, was recognized for developing Tseng Kwong Chi’s archive, which holds his “East Meets West” self-portrait series and his work with Keith Haring during the ’80s art scene. His work remains an invaluable cultural and historical archive due largely to the tireless work of Muna and Chris.
APAG MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Leslie Smolan (Rodney Smith Archive), a visionary in the field, was named APAG’s Member of the Year. Her contributions to APAG set a standard in her dedication to archive management, APAG, and the photography community.
APAG DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Alice Sachs Zimet, President of Arts + Business Partners, was awarded for her steadfast advocacy of photography and APAG. Her expertise, time, and support were crucial to the APAG community, embodying the spirit of distinguished service.
APAG BEACON AWARD
The American Photography Archives Group was honored to bestow the inaugural APAG Beacon Award upon Lynn Goldsmith in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the field of photography. She distinguished herself through her exceptional body of work in photography and portraiture and her unwavering fight to protect artists’ rights.
Lynn Goldsmith is a formidable advocate for just compensation within the creative community, a commitment exemplified by her pivotal role in the landmark Supreme Court Case, Warhol vs. Goldsmith. Her victory in this case highlighted her relentless pursuit of justice. It underscored the importance of safeguarding the rights of creators, ensuring that photographers and other creatives were duly recognized for their contributions. In light of these unparalleled achievements and her enduring impact on the photography industry, APAG was delighted to present Lynn Goldsmith with the First Annual APAG Beacon Award.
Founder and executive director Mary Engel stated, “We were proud to announce these Awards as they shine a light on the incredible talent and generosity of spirit represented in the American Photography Archives Group. Both the individuals and the archives awarded this year have made monumental contributions to the field of photography and archive management. These awards were but a small acknowledgment of their life’s work. Through their exceptional work and dedication, they each played a role in advancing the field of photography and ensuring the preservation of its history for future generations.”
About the American Photography Archives Group (APAG)
APAG is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting photography archivists and photographers in preserving, organizing, and promoting the rich heritage of photography. Through education, advocacy, and recognition, APAG aims to ensure that the legacy of photography is appreciated and sustained for future generations. For more information about APAG, please visit www.apag.us
