Cotter Homes | Photos by Bud Dorsey

Life Through The Lens Of The Late Louisville Photographer Bud Dorsey

Aug 04 2021

Louisville photographer and avid documentarian of Black life in the city, Charles ‘Bud’ Ford Dorsey Jr., passed away Thursday, July 8 surrounded by his family. Born in 1941, Dorsey was given his first camera by his uncle John Dorsey as a child. Dorsey was the lens for many important and life-changing events and celebrations in the city of Louisville. LEO wanted to celebrate his gift to Louisville through a brief selection of his work. Thankfully, through his work with the Louisville Story Program, we are able to share these photographs from Dorsey’s 2017 book, “Available Light.”

George Burney (center) and a friend at a community event.

July 13, 1998

You’re never too old to dance. West Louisville Appreciation Day in Shawnee Park.

Anne Braden with her grandson at her 70th birthday party. (July 1994)

Lee Jeffrey and his son Le’Augustus watch the Balloon Glow at the Fairgrounds.

July 30, 1999

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Life Through The Lens Of The Late Louisville Photographer Bud Dorsey

Publishing Louisville's arts and entertainment news, community-focused stories, and colorful local commentary since 1990.