Stories

Stephen Shore’s groundbreaking 1972 series, American Surfaces, revolutionized color photography by capturing the everyday moments and ordinary scenes of small-town America with a fresh, candid eye. Rejecting traditional photographic rules, Shore presented his unframed Kodak prints in a bold grid display, spotlighting humble subjects like meals and motel beds to create a vivid, authentic portrait of American life. Despite initial harsh criticism, his work gained recognition, influencing artists like Nan Goldin and echoing today in the diaristic, self-aware imagery common on Instagram. Revisiting his approach in a 2017 MoMA retrospective and through his Instagram, Shore reflects on the evolving relationship between photographer, subject, and viewer, and the enduring power of discovery in his visual storytelling.

Wolfgang Tillmans, renowned for capturing the vibrant gay scene and club culture of 1990s London, is now rallying support for the very nightlife venues that shaped his career. Through his Berlin exhibition space Between Bridges, Tillmans has launched Solidarity 2020, a fundraiser involving 50 international artists like Thomas Ruff, Elizabeth Peyton, and Gillian Wearing, who have each created exclusive print posters for sale. Priced at £50, $50, or €50—the equivalent of a night out—these prints aim to financially support nightclubs, music venues, and bars threatened by the global lockdown. Tillmans covers production and shipping costs, ensuring all proceeds go directly to struggling venues, providing a vital lifeline to informal cultural hotspots facing extinction amid the pandemic.

In the newly updated edition of Stephen Shore’s iconic book American Surfaces, readers are invited to embark on a vivid visual journey through 1970s America, capturing ordinary moments and landscapes from a unique, unfiltered perspective. Photographer Shore, at just twenty-four, traveled across nineteen states, documenting the everyday scenes of roads, buildings, cars, and people with a candid, nonjudgmental eye. Teju Cole’s insightful introduction highlights how these images, like snapshots of a fleeting past, reveal a world now vanished yet timeless in its subtle beauty—the ephemeral nature of fashion, life, and culture contrasted against enduring mountains and roads. This collection, which includes forty previously unseen photos, offers a compelling meditation on time, place, and memory, inviting us to experience a vanished America through Shore’s evocative lens.

Celebrated photographer Martin Parr’s 2019 exhibition at Britain’s National Portrait Gallery, along with his Phaidon book Only Human, received widespread acclaim for its witty and insightful portrayal of British life, capturing everything from sunbathers to fishermen with a sharply observant eye. Reflecting on the year, Parr shared his admiration for the evocative film Bait, frustration with Brexit, and excitement about his NPG show and book launch. Looking ahead, he’s working on a new book chronicling his experiences in Ireland over four decades. For those seeking a unique gift, a special Collector’s Edition of Only Human, featuring limited-edition prints, offers a perfect present for photography enthusiasts.

Lauren Greenfield’s book *Generation Wealth* captures the glamorous yet troubling facets of the modern American Dream, showcasing a diverse cast from French aristocrats to LA rap stars, and exploring how society’s obsession with wealth and fame breeds insecurity. Through her photography and a striking new animated video, Greenfield highlights how values have shifted from hard work and discipline to a culture obsessed with bling, celebrity, and narcissism. Featuring early images of high schoolers—including a young Kim Kardashian—Greenfield reveals a generation driven by the desire to be “rich and famous,” a pursuit that often ends in self-doubt fueled by consumer culture’s endless promise and new anxieties. Her compelling work exposes the harsh reality that when dreams of wealth and glamour collapse, people frequently blame themselves, perpetuating a cycle of consumption and insecurity.

Fifty years ago, President Kennedy’s bold vision of landing a man on the moon before the decade’s end became a reality with the launch of the Saturn V rocket from the Kennedy Space Center. Standing over 360 feet tall and powered by cutting-edge metallurgy and engineering, this monumental rocket was the only vehicle to carry humans beyond low-earth orbit, embodying the pioneering spirit Kennedy captured in his 1962 “We Choose the Moon” speech. Developed from ballistic missile research and propelled by the genius of Wernher von Braun, the Saturn V catapulted Apollo 11’s three-man crew on a historic journey, overcoming challenges to safely land Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the lunar surface. This momentous achievement marked not just a triumph of technology but a giant leap for mankind, forever etched in the annals of space exploration.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Moon landings, the Metropolitan Museum in New York presents Apollo’s Muse, an evocative exhibition exploring the deep connection between photography and our celestial neighbor over 130 years, from photography’s birth in 1839 to the iconic 1969 lunar touchdown. Featuring early daguerreotypes of the Sun and Moon, pioneering lunar photos by 19th-century scientists, whimsical “paper moon” studio portraits, and artistic responses to the Space Race by figures like Robert Rauschenberg and Nam June Paik, the show reveals how photography expanded our understanding and imagination of the moon. As Max Hollein, The Met’s Director, notes, the moon landing’s cultural impact continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, a story beautifully captured in Mark Holborn’s book Sun and Moon: A Story of Astronomy, Photography and Cartography.

Wernher von Braun remains one of the most complex and controversial figures in the history of space exploration. From his early passion for rocketry inspired by visionary physicist Hermann Oberth, to his role as technical director of Germany’s Army Research Centre and membership in the SS during World War II, von Braun’s legacy is intertwined with both innovation and moral ambiguity. After surrendering to American forces in 1945, he became a pivotal figure in the U.S. space program, helping to develop the Saturn rockets that powered the Apollo Moon missions and capturing the imagination of the nation during the space race. Admired by President Kennedy and celebrated on the cover of TIME magazine, von Braun’s story is one of brilliance and contradiction, embodying the ambition and boldness that propelled humanity toward the stars.

In his book *The Documentary Impulse*, renowned photographer Stuart Franklin delves into the powerful human urge behind documentary photography, driven by a passion to record and a desire to witness change. Franklin recounts his iconic capture of the 1989 Tiananmen Square "Tank Man"—an unnamed protester who stood defiantly before a column of Chinese tanks during the pro-democracy clash. Shot from a hotel balcony amidst tense chaos and smuggled out of Beijing hidden in a box of tea, Franklin’s image became a global symbol of courage and resistance, profoundly moving world leaders including then-US President George H.W. Bush. Despite initial doubts about the photo’s impact, its eventual release revealed the enduring power of a single moment frozen in time, embodying the essence of documentary storytelling.

Celebrating his 67th birthday, Martin Parr remains a beloved member of the prestigious Magnum Photos while delighting in capturing the quirky, absurd nuances of British life with humor and affection. His work, showcased in the new book Only Human: Photographs by Martin Parr, embraces a uniquely British comedic sensibility—not satirical but deeply appreciative of the idiosyncrasies of national character. Parr’s playful yet insightful eye is echoed in collaborations with comedian Graham Fellows’s alter-ego John Shuttleworth, who even penned a whimsical song capturing Parr’s unconventional approach to photography, filled with images of everyday oddities like lampshades and rubbish piles. This affectionate tribute perfectly reflects Parr’s lasting impact on the art of observational storytelling.

If you’re a fan of Mario Sorrenti and Kate Moss, now’s a great time to consider owning one of their stunning collaborations. A 1993 Mario Sorrenti photograph of Kate Moss recently sold at Phillips for an impressive $22,500, highlighting the enduring appeal of their work. While the original large prints can be quite costly, you can purchase a limited edition, signed, and numbered gelatin silver print from the same era in the Collector’s Edition of our book *Kate by Mario Sorrenti* for a more accessible $1,350 or £1,000. This beautifully crafted hardback and print set offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of iconic fashion photography that’s not only a stylish addition to your home but potentially a smart investment as well.

Hermann Landshoff, once immersed in the cultured world of pre-war Germany, survived the upheaval of the Nazi rise by fleeing to Paris and then New York, where he reinvented himself as a pioneering fashion photographer. His striking work for Vogue in the 1930s, characterized by moody, expressionist-inspired imagery, paved the way for modern European styles in American fashion magazines. Beyond capturing shadowy sophistication, Landshoff also brought vibrant energy to Junior Bazaar in the late 1940s, showcasing his versatile talent and enduring creative spirit despite the turbulent times.

Martin Parr, known for his vibrant and witty photography, reveals in a recent interview that what truly captivates him is not just bright colors or decisive moments but the underlying strong visual design that brings order to the chaos of the world. Embracing the advances in digital technology, he appreciates how modern DSLRs deliver quality comparable to his earlier medium-format cameras, making sharp image capture easier. Despite these technological leaps, Parr emphasizes the ongoing necessity of documentary photography in a rapidly changing—and often troubling—world. Interestingly, he admits to a dislike for landscape photography, preferring to focus on people, his most enduring subject, as showcased in his new book, Only Human, now available in signed editions.

National guitarist Bryce Dessner, inspired by the controversial 1990 Robert Mapplethorpe retrospective protests he witnessed as a teenager, channels this formative experience into a new musical work, Triptych (Eyes of One on Another). Collaborating with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, poet Patti Smith, and The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, Dessner blends orchestral composition with a powerful libretto to explore the lasting social impact of Mapplethorpe’s provocative art. Premiering at LA’s Walt Disney Concert Hall in March 2019, and traveling to several major cities, the piece features the vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth and a chamber orchestra, inviting audiences to collectively confront the shock, beauty, and complexity of Mapplethorpe’s work through an immersive artistic experience.

Stephen Shore, now celebrated as a leading contemporary photographer, first encountered Andy Warhol as a promising teenager in 1965. Their friendship grew through intimate late-night conversations and moments shared in New York’s Chinatown, where Shore gained rare insights into Warhol’s life and creative process. Shore’s reflections reveal a side of Warhol rarely seen—the vulnerable artist moved to tears by a 1930s tearjerker on television, quietly cared for by his mother. Through Shore’s poignant photographs and personal memories, we glimpse the warmth and complexity behind Warhol’s enigmatic public persona, captured exquisitely in the book *Factory: Andy Warhol*.

Annie Leibovitz’s new book, *Annie Leibovitz At Work*, reveals captivating stories behind her iconic photographs, including a lesser-known 1986 shoot with artist Keith Haring that went unpublished after the magazine folded. In a bold and spontaneous session, Haring painted his torso and parts of his body while Leibovitz captured striking images in a makeshift studio and later in the gritty streets of Times Square. Their playful collaboration challenged conventions and showcases Leibovitz’s fearless approach to photography, offering readers an intimate glimpse into her creative process and the vibrant moments that define her storied career.

In her insightful and beautifully illustrated book, *Annie Leibovitz At Work*, the legendary photographer reveals the evolution of her craft from solitary photojournalist to a master of elaborate, high-production shoots. Leibovitz recounts her early days carrying heavy equipment alone, her iconic work with Rolling Stone and The Rolling Stones, and her intimate relationships with subjects like John Lennon and Kate Moss. Alongside candid reflections on the physical and emotional demands of her profession, she shares humorous anecdotes and her admiration for photographic pioneers. Whether managing intricate sets or shooting with a simple 35mm, Leibovitz’s journey is a testament to the blend of raw talent, perseverance, and the behind-the-scenes labor that shapes her extraordinary career.

Four years after filling a Swiss church with 350,000 amateur photos to highlight the overwhelming flood of digital imagery, Dutch curator Erik Kessels returns to Vevey with Group Show, an exhibition celebrating vintage brass band and folk choir album covers. Embracing the charmingly amateur and deeply sincere group portraits from a pre-digital era, Kessels explores a contrasting form of creativity rooted in collective harmony. Alongside the visual display, he’s curated a unique soundtrack from the albums, inviting viewers to reflect on the beauty of shared artistic expression before the high-resolution age.

Lauren Greenfield’s compelling project, Generation Wealth, is explored in a revealing New York Times profile that delves into her lifelong examination of wealth, privilege, and aspiration in America. The article highlights Greenfield’s unique perspective, shaped by her upbringing with a countercultural mother, and her ability to document both glamorous and raw moments of affluence—from beauty pageants to etiquette lessons for the elite. It also uncovers the genesis of the accompanying Amazon Studios film, produced with her husband, which traces a narrative arc from the Reagan era to today, with Greenfield as the insightful guide. The piece also touches on her personal inclusion of family life in the film and her steadfast resistance to adopting the very values she critiques, making Generation Wealth a profound meditation on the pursuit and cost of material success.

When Robert Mapplethorpe enrolled at Pratt Institute in 1963, he was a reserved suburban teenager, but by the time he met Patti Smith, he had transformed both in style and spirit. Nancy Rooney, Mapplethorpe’s sister, fondly recalls their family's mixed reactions to his avant-garde lifestyle and relationship with Smith, including the family’s humorous belief they were married despite no ceremony. It wasn’t until his AIDS diagnosis that Nancy fully understood Robert’s sexuality, deepening her appreciation for his life and work. She fondly remembers attending his landmark Whitney retrospective, The Perfect Moment, just weeks before his death in 1989, witnessing firsthand his bold artistic vision that challenged norms and celebrated free expression.

In the early 1990s, photographer Lauren Greenfield, while working in Chiapas, Mexico, stumbled upon a transformative idea after struggling to photograph reluctant indigenous subjects. Inspired by Bret Easton Ellis’s novel *Less Than Zero*, which depicted the wealthy, alienated youth of Los Angeles—a world she herself came from—Greenfield decided to turn her lens on her affluent classmates. Returning to her alma mater, she captured candid images that revealed the obsession with money and status among teenagers flaunting hundred-dollar bills. Her work coincided with a cultural shift in America from production to consumption, highlighted by the materialism of the Reagan era. Greenfield’s poignant portraits culminated in *Generation Wealth*, a compelling book and upcoming Amazon-backed film that explores the complexities of wealth and identity in modern society.

As summer approaches, creativity enthusiasts are gearing up for Forward Festival, a dynamic international event celebrating design, advertising, and communication across four major European cities: Vienna, Munich, Hamburg, and Zurich. This festival features influential speakers like Stefan Sagmeister and Pentagram’s Paula Scher, with Dutch creative director Erik Kessels—a master of vernacular image making and co-founder of KesselsKramer—bringing his unique perspective on the power of mistakes in creativity. Kessels will share insights from his extraordinary collection of found photographs and his book *Failed It!*, exploring how errors fuel innovation. His talks in Munich, Zurich, and Hamburg promise to inspire, followed by book signings to deepen the connection between creative missteps and success.

Tate Modern's Media Networks exhibition explores how artists have engaged with mass media and technology over the past century, featuring iconic figures like Andy Warhol and the Guerrilla Girls. A standout section is dedicated to British photographer Martin Parr, showcasing his documentary photographs and photobooks from 1983 to 2007 that delve into themes of class, leisure, and consumer culture. Parr is presented not just as a photographer but as a collector of souvenirs and memorabilia, highlighting his unique perspective on British life—both seductive and grotesque, familiar yet strange. The exhibition also reflects on Parr’s extensive photobook collection, acquired by Tate in 2017, revealing a playful, multifaceted artist whose work challenges conventional documentary photography.

The Sundance Film Festival, held annually in Park City, Utah, showcases the next wave of indie film talent, and this January's lineup includes a compelling documentary by Lauren Greenfield titled Generation Wealth. Premiering on opening night, the 108-minute film offers a sharp, unflinching look at the rise and fall of materialism in America, capturing a culture obsessed with wealth and image. Serving as a powerful companion to Greenfield’s acclaimed photo book, it features stories of the ultra-rich alongside those striving for financial success, painting a vivid portrait of contemporary society’s complicated relationship with money. Known for her striking photography and previous Sundance hit The Queen of Versailles, Greenfield delivers a poignant, thought-provoking narrative that resonates far beyond the festival.