Driftwood Conversations
Gordon Clark Part 1 – The Art of Bearing Witness
Some artists take photographs. Others become the photograph. Gordon Clark is the latter.
In this first part of our conversation, I sit with a man whose life is inextricably linked to his art. Gordon doesn't shoot from a distance; he walks with people through years of intimacy, struggle, transformation, and unconditional acceptance. Whether he's embedded in Cape Town's gang world or collaborating with a dying friend, Gordon's camera becomes a vessel for carrying the story, not stealing it.
We discuss "frequency," the unseen yet magnetic force that attracts him to his subjects. He talks of corridors and rooms in the subconscious that open when triggered by memory, pain, or presence. And once they open, they flood the space with direction and purpose.
What strikes me most about Gordon's process is that he does not try to control the work. He listens. He follows. He witnesses. And what emerges are images and films that carry something sacred: the dignity of being seen.
Driftwood Conversations explores how we navigate, thrive, and continue to seek meaning in the ever-changing currents of life. Gordon's life is that conversation embodied. He honors the people the world forgets by standing with them long enough to remind us of their humanity.
Part 1 will air today, Wednesday, July 2. The story continues in Part 2, airing tomorrow.
With respect,
Hilary
To follow Gordon’s work, go to Gordonclark.tv.
For the video of Gordon’s life work:
