Biographical note
Kenrow Garrison Clarke was born on February 28, 1931 in Los Angeles, California. He developed his passion for photography at an early age when his neighbor, who happened to be the head photographer for Cecil B. DeMille, introduced him to the craft by giving him some old lenses to play with. In 1948, at the age of 17, Clarke purchased his first camera, a Speed Graphic, for $175. Clarke always looked for photo opportunities and markets for his images. He started selling photographs to local newspapers, which led to him receiving actual assignments shortly thereafter. However, it wasn't until 1965, when Garrison opened Garrison Publications, that he was able to do what he loved for a living. After creating his publication business, Clarke's first contract was with Mexico West Coast Magazine; the images taken for the magazine are part of the collection. Clarke continues to dabble in photography, and occasionally serves as a guest instructor of photography at local high schools.
From the guide to the K. Garrison Clarke collection of photographs of Southern California and Baja California, Mexico, 1948-1975, (USC Libraries Special Collections)
