The Nevada State Museum is paying tribute to a true legend, Clinton Wright, as he turns 90. Wright's remarkable journey as a photojournalist has left an indelible mark on the history of Las Vegas, especially its vibrant Westside. His work, now preserved at UNLV's Special Collections, offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era.
A Legacy Preserved
Clinton Wright's photography career began in the early 1960s when he moved to Las Vegas after graduating from college in Arkansas. He joined the team at “The Voice,” an African American newspaper founded by Dr. Charles West, the first Black physician in Southern Nevada. Wright's lens captured the essence of the historic Westside, a community often overlooked in the city's narrative.
Capturing the Richness of the Westside
Carmen Beals, curator of the “Rhythm and Resilience: Black Vegas” exhibition, highlights Wright's ability to showcase the vibrancy of the Westside during the '60s and '70s. “He captured the richness and vibrance of the historic West Side,” Beals says. “A lot of people don't realize how fabulous the West Side was in those decades.”
Reflecting on a Community's Best
Wright, now retired, reflects on his photography with a sense of purpose. “It shows some of the good side of what life was like in those days for the Black community,” he says. His work focused on showcasing the community's strengths and interests, moving away from the typical narrative of struggle and hardship.
Preserving a Vibrant Era
Wright's subjects included iconic figures like Sammy Davis Jr. and Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay). His work provides a window into a vibrant era that no longer exists, preserving not just community pride and everyday moments but also a crucial part of Black history on the Westside.
A Window to the Past
Staff at the Nevada State Museum emphasize the importance of Wright's work in preserving this era. “His work gives today’s Las Vegas a window into a vibrant era that no longer exists,” they say. “It’s a way to connect with our past and understand the community’s evolution.”
Celebrating a Milestone
The “Rhythm and Resilience: Black Vegas” exhibition, which opened on March 12, is a testament to Wright's legacy. It runs through August 20 at the Nevada State Museum, offering free admission to the public Monday through Saturday. This exhibition is a chance to celebrate Wright's 90th birthday and his invaluable contribution to Las Vegas' history.
A Deeper Reflection
Wright's work goes beyond just capturing images. It's a reflection of a community's spirit, a preservation of its pride, and a celebration of its resilience. His photographs tell a story of a vibrant, thriving community, challenging the typical narratives often associated with minority communities. Wright's legacy is a reminder of the power of visual storytelling and its ability to shape our understanding of history.
A Personal Note
As an observer of this story, I find Wright's journey and his impact on Las Vegas' history truly inspiring. His work not only documents a community's past but also serves as a bridge to connect with and understand our shared history. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and the stories that shape our communities.
