Life magazine and the National Geographic were among the early pioneers in popularizing photographic illustration in mass culture. Kodak allowed us all to become photographers. From these beginnings we have arrived now to the Internet and the cell phone. We now prefer to communicate through pictures as words recede in importance.
In our new project on “Tulsa as community" we use images for illustration. This is the traditional role of photography. In our photo collections online we additionally have collections of visual essays, field reports, and exhibits, but all are related to our purposes as a Center (and all are integrated into our academics and teaching.
The Center for Studies in Democracy and Culture organizes programs, seminars, and activities designed to stimulate interest in contemporary issues in our society, as well as greater understanding of global cultures. Participants include members of the Oklahoma community, in addition to OU students and faculty. The center has welcomed guests from dozens of countries, and speakers have included top diplomats (including ambassadors), prominent academics, well-known authors, political leaders, and many others.
The programs and activities of the Center are open to the public. If you would like to be added to the invitation list for Center activities, click here to send an email to the Director and let him know you are interested. He will be pleased to add you to our invitation list.