HIGHLAND PARK, IL.- Susan Wood, a pioneering figure in the world of photography, is the focus of a new exhibition at Laughlin Gallery on view to the public from May 4 through May 25, 2024. Susan Wood: In Time, featuring 20 photographs from 1960-1984, captures the essence of an era marked by social upheaval and transformation.

Susan Wood: In Time offers a glimpse into the profound impact of Wood's work, inviting viewers to reflect on the evolution of culture and identity over the decades. From the glamour of fashion photography to the raw authenticity of social documentary, her images serve as a poignant reminder of the power of visual storytelling. Curated in association with Jeri Netter Henoch of Elyse Fine Art, Laughlin Gallery celebrates the enduring relevance of Susan Wood's photographic legacy and reflects on the evolution of culture and identity.

Born and raised in New York City, Wood's journey parallels the dynamic shifts in society, from her early days among the iconic "Mad Men" of Madison Avenue to her trailblazing contributions to the feminist movement. With a prolific career spanning over six decades, Wood's indelible imprint on photography is evident in her diverse body of work. In 1954, her photographs graced the pages of the inaugural issue of Sports Illustrated, a prelude to her meteoric rise in the field. A decade later, Mademoiselle recognized her as one of their "Ten Young Women of the Year," a testament to her creative prowess and cultural impact.

Throughout the tumultuous 1960s, '70s, and '80s, Wood's lens captured the zeitgeist of each era, as her images found a home in esteemed publications such as Vogue, Life, People, and New York magazines. Notably, her collaboration with Look magazine yielded a groundbreaking cover story in 1969 featuring the iconic duo, John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Wood is a dedicated advocate for women's rights and equality. As a founding member of the Women's Forum, she forged alliances with trailblazers of the feminist movement, including Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem. Through her activism and artistry, Wood challenged societal norms and championed the voices of women across generations. Steinem states, “Susan Wood’s magical photographic view of women will let some see high points of our lives, and others see where we’ve been for the first time, but everyone will see why the camera was invented.”

“We are thrilled to welcome iconic photographer Susan Wood to Laughlin Gallery to celebrate her impactful career,” said Lauren Laughlin, founder of Laughlin Gallery. “Her work captures the essence of feminism and the important late 20th century cultural shifts. Wood’s photography and activism paved the way for women in the arts today, and her work tells that powerful story.”

“I shot several assignments in the Midwest, but have not yet exhibited in the Chicago area,” said Susan Wood, who will attend the opening. “I hope viewers will enjoy the walk through history and the stories behind the photos, and leave inspired to fulfill their own passions.”

Susan Wood: In Time will run through May 25, 2024.

Susan Wood (b. 1932, New York City) is an internationally published photographer and journalist. The winner of many Art Director and Clio awards, her work has been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. Throughout the 1970s and ‘80s, Susan's editorial and advertising work could be seen in magazines such as Vogue, Look, Life, People, and New York. Susan was a regular contributor to Look, most notably for a cover story on John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Susan also worked for 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, and United Artists, and was the stills photographer on the set of Easy Rider. Mademoiselle named Susan as one of their 10 Women of The Year in 1961. Susan was also a founding member of the Women’s Forum. Her investigative reportage on medical malfeasance titled “Dr. Feelgood”, appeared as a cover article in New York magazine. Susan is the author of Women: Portraits 1960-2000 and the co-author of Hampton Style. Susan's work is represented in the Library of Congress and by Getty Images. A native New Yorker, she attended the City’s High School of Music and Art, went on to receive her BA from Sarah Lawrence College and did graduate work at Yale University School of Art and Architecture. Susan is 92 years old and presently resides in New York.