The exhibit, “Michael Jang’s California,” explicitly showcases the photographer’s close-up study of Northern California during the 1960s-1970s through his street photography and portraits. Walking through the gallery, one may be overwhelmed and struck in disbelief of just how many monumental moments Jang was present for during these two pivotal decades in Californian – and American – history. In his photos, he captures the sadness of our city: the funeral of George Moscone, the assassination of Harvey Milk.
He also captures the pulsating life: front row at a Ramones concert, Frank Sinatra and Ronald Reagan partying at the Beverly Hilton. He captures the state of California, and San Francisco in particular, at a time when society had convinced itself it was wild and free and uninhibited. Through his photos, we see both the truth and exaggeration of this concept; a society on the verge, a society at the cusp of no return.
There are no screens in his photos, no cell phones, no constant and immediate distraction. It’s the same streets, the same bus lines, the same landmarks we live out our lives in each day of the week. Remembering the city like this, so devoid of futuristic technology or gentrification, is a grounding experience. Altogether the verdict is this: Michael Jang is one of the greats. It’s about time you’ve heard of him.
// Michael Jang is on exhibit at McEvoy Foundation for the Arts 1150 25th Street, Building BSan Francisco, CA 94107; open daily 10am-6pm; photography courtesy of McEvoy Foundation for the Arts. Feature photo by Michael Jang, Aunts and Uncles from his series The Jangs, 1973, gelatin silver print. Courtesy of the artist / © Michael Jang
