As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize Jim Alexander, a Historic South Atlanta giant whose photography has documented Black culture, activism, and social change for decades.
Photographer and South Atlanta resident Jim Alexander moved to Atlanta after meeting Maynard Jackson, who invited him to teach at the Neighborhood Arts Center (NAC). Founded as part of Jackson’s vision for a diverse arts community, the NAC later led to the creation of The Arts Exchange. Today, Jim’s photographs preserve the NAC’s legacy.
Originally from Waldwick, New Jersey, Jim’s journey in photography began during his military service with an unexpected win in a dice game. “I was stationed in Bainbridge, Maryland. We were shooting dice, and I rolled a 10. This guy bet me I couldn’t make it. I did, and when I asked for my $10, he handed me a yellow box instead and said, ‘Hold this camera until payday, and I’ll give you your money.’ Eventually, he told me to keep it. So, I started taking pictures and selling them to the guys for $0.50.”
Jim honed his skills under a base photographer, developing a passion for documenting Black culture and social change. “I told Gordon one day, ‘They’ve assassinated Dr. King, and they’re saying we’re free at last. I want to spend the next 10 years documenting us and seeing if we really are.’”
Gordon Parks encouraged him but warned, “Do what you want to do with your photography… though you may starve. No one’s going to pay you to do that.”
Two decades later, Jim exhibited his work at the Apex Museum during the National Black Arts Festival. Gordon attended, saw his photographs, and congratulated him on his achievements.
Before relocating to Atlanta in 1976, Jim founded a Black Arts Organization. He and his family settled in South Atlanta, purchasing a home on Brownsmill Rd. Over the years, he gave back to the community, including donations to Carver Market, where his and his wife’s names are displayed.
Jim has witnessed South Atlanta change, with older homes bought, rented, and resold, often without real improvements. He also founded the Black Photography Association in Castleberry, supporting Black photographers. Now, he continues mentoring young artists while reflecting on a lifetime of work and activism.
This Black History Month, we honor Jim Alexander—a visionary whose photography stands as a testament to art, community, and the enduring power of Black storytelling.
Explore Jim Alexander’s nearly 60-year legacy of documenting Black life and culture—listen to his WABE interview here.
