Duncan Michael Laurance

D. Michael Laurance, 65, photographer, cinematographer and educator, of Las Cruces, NM, and former urban pioneer in KC, lost his battle with cancer May 24, 2007. He was born in Dunedin, Florida September 18, 1941 to Jack and Marie Laurance. Mike was truly a modern renaissance man. His life was akin to that of Forrest Gump; but instead of being in the picture, he was directing or shooting it--from JFK's White House to profiling Laura Bush to making movies in LA and NM with many major talents. As a photographer, his clients included American Airlines, The Rolling Stones, Joe Cocker and Richard Dreyfuss. Mike's photos and editorial work appeared in Time, Life, Playboy and National Geographic. He designed award-winning ads for Kodak, Bell & Howell and H&R Block. He was honored with many KC Ad Club awards. In the 70s and 80s, his studio at 8th & Tracy was the nexus for KC's hip creative talent. He dined daily at the Savoy Grill, where they named a booth after him. Mike's works have been exhibited at the International Center for Photography, the Kennedy Gallery, Boston Museum, and LA's Center for Photography. The Institute of Historical Survey Foundation in Mesilla Park, NM is currently archiving his life's work. He earned a BFA from The Art Center in LA, and MA from New Mexico State University, where he was an instructor. In 2001-2003, he was Chairman of Dona Ana's Republican Party, then worked as Field Coordinator for the New Mexico Republican Party. Mike's life culminated with a tremendous second act. Unlike many film photographers, he embraced new media and digital formats. Mike was a driving force in establishing New Mexico as a powerhouse in the film industry. He was co-founder of Creative Media Institute at New Mexico State University. His tireless work as Director of Operations and lively but patient teaching style jump-started many careers. Mike's passion was developing a job-oriented BA curriculum in digital film making. He insisted on state-of-the-art equipment and hands-on training, often on feature films. He used his vast contacts to import film industry heavyweights to New Mexico to inspire and teach his students. On his deathbed, he was dictating next year's curriculum. CMI just named its Operations Center after Mike; and created a scholarship in his name for promising young filmmakers. Taxdeductible contributions can be mailed to the D. Michael Laurance Scholarship Fund, c/o Jonathan Benson, CMI, NMSU, Box 30001 MSC 3CMI, Las Cruces, NM 88003. 505/646-5671. He is survived by brothers Philip, Robert and Calvin and stepmother, Ruby. Friends, please sign legacy.com guestbook.