Celebrated Cinematographer Opens Photo Exhibit In Chicago

WDCB’s Gary Zidek catches up with Roger and James Deakins at the site of a new photo exhibition.

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Whether you realize it or not, chances are you’ve seen Roger Deakins’ work on the big screen multiple times. The 16-time Academy Award nominee has created the visual style for some of Hollywood’s most celebrated films. THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, FARGO, NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, SKY FALL & BLADE RUNNER 2049 are just a handful of the movies Deakins has been cinematographer for. After going home empty handed the first 13 times he was nominated for Best Cinematographer, Deakins won for his work on BLADE RUNNER 2049 in 2017. And then won his second Oscar two years later for the historical drama 1918.

Deakins' film career started in the mid-70s, but his love of photography began even earlier than his introduction to the movie business. After decades of taking pictures as a hobby, his wife and professional collaborator James Deakins suggested he turn his photos into a book. That hardcover monograph, BYWAYS, was published in 2021. Interest in the book has led to some public exhibitions of Deakins’ photography, including one that recently opened in Chicago at the Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture.

A photo exhibit of Roger Deakins’ work is on display at the Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture through April 30th. You can find more information at athenaeumcenter.org