The entire International Center of Photography community mourns the death of the man whose vision continues to guide us today. As a renowned photographer and humanitarian, as the founder of the International Fund for Concerned Photography, and the founder of ICP in 1974, Cornell was a singular force in the world of photography, opening our eyes to the power of the photographic image as an agent of change. At ICP he ventured far beyond photojournalism and brought the full range of photography to the public's attention through an institution that was born, whole-cloth, as a true center—both Museum and School. There Cornell was available to the many photographers from around the world who came to him for advice and encouragement. ICP and photographers everywhere are his lasting legacy.

Born in Budapest in 1918, Cornell Capa came to New York City in 1937. He worked extensively for LIFE magazine, and in 1954 joined the influential Magnum agency, which was founded by his brother, photojournalist Robert Capa. Cornell traveled to the Soviet Union and covered the Israeli Six-Day War, but his most extensive projects focused on politics and poverty in Latin America, on social issues in the United States, and on American presidential politics from Adlai Stevenson to JFK and Barry Goldwater.

In 1966, Cornell Capa formed the International Fund for Concerned Photography in honor of his brother, Robert, and other photojournalists who lost their lives on assignment. The Fund produced lectures, workshops, and books, gave out scholarships to young photographers, and created photography exhibitions. The Fund for Concerned Photography led to the founding of the International Center of Photography in 1974 in New York City. Cornell served as director for 20 years, before becoming Founding Director Emeritus in 1994.

Cornell Capa's numerous awards include the Honor Award from the American Society of Magazine Photographers (1975); Leica Medal of Excellence (1986); Peace and Culture Award, Sokka Gakkai International, Japan (1990); Order of the Arts and Letters, France (1991); The Distinguished Career in Photography Award from the Friends of Photography (1995); Honorary Membership from the ASMP (1995); and a Lifetime Achievement Award in Photography from the Aperture Foundation (1999).

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 10 at 10:00 am at The Times Center at 242 West 42st Street between 7th and 8th Avenues.

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Cornell Capa Limited Edition Print Portfolio

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