President Warren G. Harding was a Galion area native, having been born just a few miles away in Blooming Grove to parents who were married in Uptowne Galion.
For Galionites who are students of Harding and of the US Presidency, an opportunity is taking place this summer to learn more about that institution. In particular, you can take an extraordinary journey into the United States Presidency as seen through the eyes of renowned photographer Pete Souza.
The 2023 Harding Symposium, taking place in Marion, is titled “Through the Photographer’s Lens: Exploring the United States Presidency,” and is set to take place on July 14-15. It will be offering an intimate glimpse into the life and times of America’s 29th president, Warren G. Harding, and beyond.
Pete Souza, the event’s distinguished speaker, is no stranger to the corridors of power. Having served as the Chief Official White House Photographer for two presidents, Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan, Souza has a unique perspective that transcends political affiliations. His lens has captured history in the making, offering an insider’s view that few can claim.
The symposium, an annual event dedicated to the scholarly and cultural examination of President Harding’s era, takes an intriguing twist this year by delving into the fascinating world of presidential photography. Attendees will have the opportunity to understand how the United States Presidency is documented and showcased, shedding light on the intersection between politics, history, and art.
Souza’s tenure in the White House is unparalleled. During Obama’s administration alone, he spent an astonishing 25,000 hours within the presidential bubble, making almost two million photographs. His work provides a unique, ground-level perspective of our democracy in action, revealing the often unseen workings of the Oval Office.
Please note that seats for select portions of the symposium are limited, so prompt registration, due by June 30, is encouraged. Don’t miss out on this chance to gain a unique perspective on American history, as seen through the discerning eye of one of its most celebrated photographers.
To learn more about the symposium or to register, visit the event’s website.
Photo: 1831Galion
