Karen Ducey (@karenducey.bsky.social)

Seattle photographer Albert “Al” Smith preserved decades of Black life from the '30s until his death in 2008: the city's jazz scene, swimming competitions at Madrona Beach, family gatherings. Now Smith’s photos are celebrated, but for most of his life, his work went under-recognized.

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Al Smith: Reflecting Black life in Seattle For much of the 20th century, the “on the spot” photographer captured striking images, from jazz clubs to boxing matches to community celebrations. https://blackartslegacies.cascadepbs.org/articles/al-smith