Christenberry, William

William Andrew Christenberry Jr. (November 5, 1936 – November 28, 2016) was an American photographer, painter, sculptor, and teacher who drew inspiration from his childhood in Hale County, Alabama. Christenberry focused on architecture, abandoned structures, nature, and studied the psychology and effects of place and memory. He is best known for his haunting compositions of landscapes, signs, and abandoned buildings in his home state. Christenberry is also considered a pioneer of color photography as an art form; he was especially encouraged in the medium by the likes of Walker Evans and William Eggleston.