Lenny Foster Tells St. Augustine's Stories Through His Photography

Lenny Foster shows off his Porch Portraits of people who were a part of the St. Augustine Civil Rights Movement

There are many people I admire in St. Augustine, most of them from a distance, but sometimes they have a way of stepping in my path when I most need them to. That's what happened one chilly afternoon when I was walking down the streets in St. Augustine and ran into fine arts photographer Lenny Foster. He invited me into his Gallery One Forty Four on King Street, and it was like getting a history lesson through beautiful, soulful images. 

I have admired Lenny Foster's work for years, especially his porch portraits with photos of some of the people who participated in the St. Augustine Civil Rights Movement.

"As the awareness of this history dawned on me it has become a focus of my work allowing me to combine my fine art photography with a historic and social awareness of the continuing struggle for freedom and recognition by the people who are my ancestors, my heritage. I feel honored to be able to share this history, through my work, with a broader public." 

Lenny Foster

Lenny's passion immediately shines through when he starts talking about his photography, the amazing art hanging on his gallery walls and covering the pages of five books, and even in his 2024 calendar. 

Lenny Foster's 2024 Calendar "Where We Stand".

There's something special about Lenny's art; his talent is tremendous, but what would talent be without passion? Lenny has both, and it is clear when you look at his art. 

"The decision to use shoes, as the vehicle for storytelling came as a result of the controversy surrounding the kneeling of professional athletes protesting racism in America. The imagery and text aim to show who we are and where we have been as a people in this area. This history is vast and rich and we have stood, sat and knelt for many a high and honorable cause, not to mention, the struggle for everyday existence."

Lenny Foster

Lenny Foster has documented St. Augustine's civil rights movement through his photos, he has captured the essence of the brave souls who fought the non-violent fight against discrimination, and he has met many of them on their own turf through his recent Porch Portraits series.

Being an artist isn't easy. When someone uses their talents to put the spotlight on others and to do their bit to make the world a better, more equal, and more compassionate place through their art, it should be applauded.

If you haven't already, I urge you to visit Lenny Foster's gallery and support him by purchasing his art, books, and calendar. 

You can purchase Lenny Foster's 2024 calendar and his books on his website www.lennyfoster.com or at www.galleryonefortyfour.com.

Visit Lenny Foster at his 

Gallery One Forty Four

144 King Street,

St. Augustine, FL

904-466-8305

Please sign up for the St. Augustine Connection newsletter and follow the St. Augustine Connection on social media.  

Following us will help us spread the word about the work we do so that we can help serve you better.