Adrian White

Bio

Adrian White is a Los Angeles-based photographer whose evocative portraiture delves into themes of memory, trauma, and history, all from the unique lens of the African diaspora. Through his work, White seeks to forge a deep connection with his ancestors, weaving together the threads of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and visions of a hopeful, utopian future. Born and raised in the small, historically rich town of Stantonsburg, North Carolina—a community steeped in the legacy of tobacco and cotton—White's upbringing profoundly influenced his artistic journey. He honed his craft at North Carolina Central University, earning a BA in 2002, before progressing to Brooks Institute of Photography for a BFA in 2014, and culminating with an MFA in Photography and Related Media from Parsons School of Design in 2019. White articulates his artistic philosophy with clarity: “My photographic process places as much emphasis on preserving memories as it does on creating images. Memories possess a transformative power; they can heal us if we are attuned to their narratives.” Through his lens, he invites viewers to engage with the past while inspiring contemplation of a more inclusive and hopeful future.