Legendary photographer and cultural hero Gordon Parks and his influence on African-American cinema are the focus of national Black History Month special events and exhibits hosted by Macy’s, the American Black Film Festival, and the Gordon Parks Foundation.

Parks, a humanitarian with a deep commitment to social justice, was one of the seminal figures of 20th century photography. From the early 1940s until his death in 2006, he created a body of work that documents many of the most important aspects of American culture, focusing on race relations, poverty, civil rights and urban life.

During his lifetime, the celebrated composer, author and filmmaker interacted with many of the most prominent people of his era – from politicians and artists to celebrities and athletes.

In 1969, he became the first African-American to write and direct a Hollywood feature film based on his best-selling novel “The Learning Tree.” This was followed in 1971 by the hugely successful motion picture “Shaft” that starred Richard Roundtree.

Among its activities celebrating Parks, Macy’s is hosting two events – “Design Your Own Book” and “In Conversation” on Feb. 16 at its Lenox Square store in Buckhead.

Some of Parks’ most beloved works, including “American Gothic,” “Washington D.C.” and “1942,” will be on display at the store.

Macy’s Lenox store is one of 14 locations nationwide that will honor Parks during February.

“Design Your Own Book” takes place at 2 p.m. in the store’s children’s department in honor of Parks’ acclaimed novel “The Learning Tree,” which propelled Parks into the spotlight in 1969.

The Macy’s event will highlight Parks’ literary life as children create their own unique books.

“In Conversation,” which starts at 3 p.m., will feature actor and director Eriq LaSalle on a panel discussing Parks’ influence on film and the future of African-American cinema.

LaSalle is known for playing Dr. Peter Benton on the NBC drama series “ER.”

The others panelists will be Arnika Dawkins, owner of Arnika Dawkins Gallery, and Darrell Lane, international photographer specializing in “everyday people.”

CBS’ “Better Mornings Atlanta” news anchor Tracye Hutchins will moderate the discussion.

Funk classics from the movie “Shaft,” released in 1971, will get the party started after the film discussion. DJs and dancers will highlight the “Shaft” era in music for a new audience.

For more information, visit macys.com/celebrate.