Hoyt Jones, late Maryland state trooper first class and official state police photographer, embodied and captured the good side of Baltimore.
His photographs of Charm City, the Baltimore Police Department and the Maryland State Police are on view in An Officer?s Eye at the Eubie Blake National Jazz and Cultural Center.
Jones, a Baltimore native, began his photography career over 40 years ago as a Marine Corps photographer, before becoming the first black photographer for the Maryland State Police, said Evelyn Jones, his wife of 38 years. “He was a true pioneer. He was always a great giver. I think he would be pleased to see his work is a part of his legacy, giving back to the Baltimore community.”
“He often told me that he could feel a sense of God as he took the pictures,” Evelyn said. “Through his photography, he could make the ordinary appear extraordinary.”
Jones? work shows Baltimore evolving, curator Darrin Bastfield said. “In his photographs, you see how Fells Point, the Inner Harbor and the Jones Falls used to look ? caught between the stages of redevelopments and covering times from the last three mayors.”
Charles Smith, Jones? protégé and FBI field photographer, organized the exhibit to honor Jones, whom he met when he was six. “He was my neighbor, took to me and gave me the drive for actually getting something done. His influence has gotten me to where I am.” Smith said.
An Officer?s Eye gives people a rare chance to see quality photography, Smith added. “His work is displayed all over my house, but I want others to see and be a part of it.”
IF YOU GO
An Officer?s Eye
» Venue: Eubie Blake National Jazz and Cultural Center, 847 North Howard Street, Baltimore
» When: Until November 30; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
» Info: 410-225-3130
