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.

Wolfgang Tillmans gained recognition in the 1990s through his work for style magazines but has uniquely continued to embrace and exhibit his commercial commissions alongside his gallery successes. Unlike many fine-art photographers who distance themselves from such work, Tillmans views these projects as vital opportunities to explore and share his evolving visual language across diverse platforms, from magazines to installations. His photography often highlights themes of community and shared experience, as seen in his coverage of London’s 1992 Pride events, the Chemistry Club, and even peace protests and religious gatherings, drawing connections between seemingly disparate groups through their pursuit of alternative ways of life. Through this breadth of work, Tillmans communicates not just social identity, but the collective hopes and fears that bind communities, reflecting his deep commitment to both artistic innovation and social engagement.

Dorothea Lange, born in 1895, emerged as a powerful voice during the Great Depression through her poignant documentary photography that humanized the era’s hardship. Despite personal challenges—including surviving polio and a difficult childhood—Lange captured some of the most iconic images of the time, none more impactful than her 1936 photograph "Migrant Mother." This haunting portrait of Florence Owens Thompson and her children, taken at a desperate pea pickers’ camp in California, revealed the raw reality of poverty and resilience. Lange’s blend of intimate studio techniques with candid fieldwork created a deeply empathetic image that spurred government aid and changed public perception, earning her a Guggenheim Prize and forever influencing the art of documentary photography.

In an insightful interview coinciding with his Outstanding Contribution to Photography award at the 2017 Sony World Photography Awards, Martin Parr shares fascinating glimpses into his unique career. Despite heading the renowned Magnum Photo agency, Parr reveals he avoids the harsh realities of war photography, instead focusing on capturing the quirks and subtleties of Western life, which he has explored passionately for over 45 years. From photographing a Mormon family with polygamous ties in the US to waiting patiently for the perfect moment in a Hungarian bathhouse, Parr emphasizes the dedication, patience, and personal connection needed to capture compelling images. Known for sparking controversy with his bold approach, he embraces criticism as part of his artistic journey, viewing it as a catalyst rather than a deterrent. Through his lens, even the familiar becomes intriguingly exotic, especially his native Britain, making Parr's work a celebration of everyday oddities with a unique and enduring perspective.

Lauren Greenfield’s compelling new photographic book, Generation Wealth, offers a powerful political and economic commentary on the global obsession with wealth. Over 25 years, Greenfield has captured striking images from Los Angeles to Moscow, chronicling the rise and fall of fortunes and the cultural impact of affluence—from a young Kim Kardashian to contemporary oligarchs and aspiring billionaires. Her work unflinchingly explores the allure and consequences of wealth, blending humor and horror in vivid, personal storytelling. Celebrated for her award-winning documentary The Queen of Versailles, Greenfield brings sharp social insight, which she will discuss alongside economist Anne McElvoy at an event in London. This evocative collection reveals much about our times and the far-reaching influence of money in a globalized world.

Martin Parr’s upcoming exhibition at Somerset House in London celebrates his remarkable career with an array of images capturing British life, from his early black-and-white shots in small communities during the 1970s to his vibrant, color-saturated works influenced by American photographer William Eggleston. The show, running from April 21 to May 7, coincides with Parr receiving the World Photography Organisation’s Outstanding Contribution to Photography award and offers a fascinating look at both the quiet composure of his early monochrome photos and the lively, raucous spirit of his later work, inviting audiences to explore the full spectrum of his visual storytelling.

Had Lou Reed lived, he would have celebrated his 75th birthday today, a milestone for an artist who famously renounced drink and drugs after decades of indulgence. Imagining him now, one might picture Lou practicing tai chi, immersed in Baudelaire’s poetry, or jamming with his old friend David Bowie in classic Seventies style. This tribute recalls stunning photos by teenage Stephen Shore at Andy Warhol’s Factory, where Reed often appeared, blending art and music with The Velvet Underground. As we remember Lou, we honor his lasting influence, playing *Songs For Drella*, an album that remains as powerful and evocative as ever.

Andy Warhol's legendary social scene comes to life in Stephen Shore’s book, Factory: Andy Warhol Steven Shore, capturing the eccentric mix of Ivy League intellectuals, European art stars, and rock musicians who made his parties unforgettable. From the wild antics of Nico, who stunned guests by ladling punch straight from the bowl, to Lou Reed’s fragile but creative beginnings under Warhol’s avant-garde influence, and the quirky ledgers of Velvet Underground expenses that amused Shore’s father—these stories reveal the vibrant, chaotic world Warhol cultivated. Filled with candid anecdotes and rich photographs, the book offers an intimate glimpse into the buzzing energy of Warhol’s Factory, where art, music, and legendary personalities collided.

Grace Coddington, Vogue’s creative director at large, reflects on her illustrious career in the elegant collection Saving Grace: My Fashion Archive 1968-2016, which showcases her iconic collaborations and visionary fashion storytelling. Alongside model-turned-photographer Ellen Von Unwerth, Grace captures moments where models shed inhibitions and embrace spontaneity, bringing cinematic narratives to life through meticulous, inspired shoots. From John Galliano’s delicate ball gowns on a remote Jamaican beach to a romantic journey inspired by The English Patient, their work blends high fashion with vivid real-world settings. Notably, Grace recalls a memorable shoot on an Amish farm in Pennsylvania, where simplicity and authenticity perfectly embodied the austere fashion of the early ’90s, highlighting her incomparable ability to fuse creativity with a sense of place.

Charles Darwin initially struggled to understand the purpose of the peacock’s extravagant tail, as it seemed like a cumbersome hindrance rather than an advantage in survival. His explorations of Galápagos finches led him to the pivotal idea that species evolve through small, advantageous changes over generations, but the peacock’s tail posed a mystery. Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace later proposed that such elaborate features likely evolved to attract mates, and recent studies even suggest these impressive tails might help intimidate predators, offering a dual survival benefit. This fascinating interplay of beauty, survival, and evolution is captured in stunning photographs by Robert Clark in the book *Evolution: A Visual Record*, which invites readers to see natural selection through a vibrant, eye-opening lens.

Evolution: A Visual Record showcases 200 striking images by award-winning photographer Robert Clark, capturing the stunning diversity and complexity of life shaped by Darwinian natural selection. The book not only highlights the wonders of nature, from birds and butterflies to fossils and mammals, but also delves into the intriguing story of dog breeds—an exception shaped by human-directed artificial selection. While breeders have sculpted breeds like poodles, greyhounds, and bulldogs to emphasize distinct traits, the origins of domestic dogs remain a fascinating mystery, with recent genetic findings revealing links to ancient wolves. This visual journey invites readers to explore how natural and artificial selection have intertwined to shape the animal kingdom and poses poignant questions about the consequences of human intervention in evolution.

Ai Weiwei, widely known as an artist and activist, has gained fresh recognition for his compelling smartphone photography, particularly through his Instagram account where he documents daily life, exhibitions, and the ongoing European migrant crisis. His upcoming exhibition at Amsterdam’s Foam gallery, titled Ai Weiwei - #Safepassage, opens on September 15 and focuses on the human impact of migration, showcasing his iconic refugee images alongside sculptures and films. The show explores the tension between individual lives and overarching societal systems, highlighting Ai’s critical perspective not only on China’s political landscape but also on Europe’s handling of refugee flows, tying his broader themes of power, displacement, and humanity into a poignant visual narrative.

Contemporary artist Wolfgang Tillmans reflects on the emotional impact of the recent EU Referendum, expressing a poignant sense of loss for the open and international spirit symbolized by landmarks like Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge. While not deeply depressed by the vote to leave, Tillmans acknowledges a profound sadness rooted in the broader wave of political upheaval that Tony Blair once described—a rising tide of populism fueled by frustration with globalization and elites. He warns that this right-wing populism threatens the pillars of the free world order established over the past 70 years and calls on all of us to defend these values with courage, emphasizing that the majority still supports openness and unity.

In a world obsessed with perfection, photographer and author Erik Kessels reminds us of the charm in embracing imperfections. Known for his book *Failed It!*, Kessels celebrates those happy accidents that happen without any effort, such as the hilariously disastrous moment when his photo backdrop repeatedly collapsed during a shoot at Photo London. Far from staged, these candid slips highlight the beauty of failure and the appeal of things going wonderfully wrong in an era saturated with flawless images. Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with Erik, but for now, enjoy this joyful glimpse into his perfectly imperfect world.

Born in divided West Germany and rising to fame through British youth culture photography, Wolfgang Tillmans is a distinctly European artist who is now passionately advocating for the UK to remain in the EU. Known for his moderate public stance, Tillmans is targeting young voters with a “stay in” campaign, emphasizing the crucial need for voter registration ahead of the referendum. He warns that Brexit could weaken the EU, empowering authoritarian forces like Putin and far-right parties, and argues that the EU, despite its flaws, upholds democracy, human rights, and cooperation. Tillmans sees the referendum as a pivotal moment and urges people to resist polarisation, defend moderation, and realize that leaving the EU risks strengthening anti-democratic movements and increasing bureaucratic obstacles. Through a series of freely available posters, he encourages widespread sharing and engagement to ensure that everyone, especially younger voters, can have their say in shaping Europe’s future.

Last night’s launch of Martin Parr’s new book, *Real Food*, took place at the stylish E. Tautz boutique in Mayfair, hosted by fashion innovator Patrick Grant. Known for his appreciation of Parr’s iconic work, Grant drew inspiration from Parr’s legendary *Boring Postcards* series for his latest collection. The event attracted an exclusive crowd, including influencers and writers from leading publications like the Financial Times and Wallpaper*, all eager to meet the legendary photographer. Parr was in great spirits, signing copies and engaging warmly with guests. Highlighting E. Tautz’s commitment to handmade, UK-manufactured fashion since its 2009 relaunch, the evening was a perfect blend of art, style, and celebration.

Stuart Franklin, the acclaimed documentary photographer behind the iconic 'Tank Man' image from Tiananmen Square, shares a selection of his favorite powerful photographs in his new book, The Documentary Impulse. Among his top picks featured on Artspace are Olivo Barbieri’s sun-drenched and vibrantly arranged Adriatic Sea scenes, Naoya Hatakeyama’s striking industrial "Blast" series which showcases his mastery of color, and Graciela Iturbide’s evocative photograph of a tree, symbolizing the deep connection between nature and humanity. Franklin’s curation celebrates the diverse, evocative power of documentary photography to capture the human spirit and the world around us.

Danny Lyon, one of the most original and influential documentary photographers since the 1960s, is renowned for immersing himself in the lives of society’s outsiders, activists, and underdogs. Pioneering what became known as ‘The New Journalism,’ Lyon lived alongside his subjects for extended periods, capturing intimate and powerful images. Among his iconic work is a series from 1963 in Uptown Chicago’s impoverished ‘Hillbilly Heaven,’ where with a borrowed Rolleiflex camera, he documented the daily lives of families on Clifton Street. Two striking silver gelatin prints from this period, Inside Kathy’s Apartment and Three Young Men, showcase Lyon’s ability to reveal profound humanity in his subjects. These signed and numbered editions, printed in 2009, highlight Lyon’s enduring legacy, celebrated by major institutions like the Whitney Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and writer Jack Fritscher shared a complex understanding of good and evil shaped by their Catholic upbringing and the repressive attitudes toward homosexuality of their era. Mapplethorpe's work boldly juxtaposed pristine beauty with provocative eroticism, while Fritscher championed marginalized queer cultures through publishing. Celebrating the freedom of the 1970s before the shadow of AIDS fell, Fritscher reflects on their passionate times and Mapplethorpe’s urgency to create a lasting legacy as illness encroached. Particularly striking were Mapplethorpe’s floral photographs, which Fritscher describes as embodying the artist’s dual fascination with beauty and darkness—fragile yet intensely alive, revealing the “devil in us all.” This intimate recollection honors Mapplethorpe’s enduring influence as his once-taboo images gain revered status in the art world.

The new documentary "Robert Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures" revisits the life and art of the iconic photographer, whose work once ignited fierce controversy thanks to opposition from right-wing senator Jesse Helms. Opening with Helms’ challenge to “look at the pictures” when debating if Mapplethorpe’s edgy photography was art or pornography, the film strikingly underlines the artist’s desire to have his work judged on its own merits—from delicate floral studies to bold S&M imagery. Featuring heartfelt interviews with Mapplethorpe’s family and friends alongside archival footage, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of his journey from a suburban childhood to Manhattan success. Premiering on HBO and coinciding with a major retrospective in Los Angeles, this film offers a compelling reevaluation of a photographer whose legacy continues to provoke and inspire.

The rich symbolism of flowers, from poppies commemorating war to red roses embodying intense emotions, is poignantly captured in the work of Robert Mapplethorpe, whose floral photographs reveal layers of meaning and personal reflection. Shortly before his untimely death at 42, Mapplethorpe shared a striking black-and-white image of tulips in a vase—a powerful and intimate farewell to loved ones, symbolizing his acceptance of mortality and the love he felt. This touching tribute highlights the profound emotional depth in Mapplethorpe’s floral studies, inviting us to see beyond beauty to themes of life, love, and loss. To fully appreciate this evocative collection, one can explore the exquisite reproductions in *Mapplethorpe Flora: The Complete Flowers*.

Nan Goldin’s photography transcends mere visuals to capture the raw emotions and intimate relationships of her close circle, chronicling decades of friendship, love, and identity. Celebrated worldwide and held in major museum collections, her work reveals a vibrant, evolving “secret family” with images that both preserve and honor the lives of her subjects. Now, three limited-edition Cibachrome prints—featuring iconic moments like Guido floating in Sicily and Valérie in a Paris taxi—are available for collectors, each signed, numbered, and accompanied by Goldin’s book The Devil’s Playground. These rare prints offer a powerful glimpse into Goldin’s tender, unapologetic view of human connection.

Martin Parr’s new London exhibition, Strange and Familiar, offers a captivating and unconventional perspective on Britain through the eyes of 23 international photographers. Spanning decades and diverse styles, the collection features evocative works from the 1930s to the present, including Edith Tudor-Hart’s gritty East End images, Henri Cartier-Bresson’s coronation crowds, and contemporary shots by Hans Eijkelboom. Highlighted by striking compositions such as Tina Barney’s intimate domestic scene, the exhibition challenges traditional British photographic narratives, creating a sense of both familiarity and estrangement. Opening at the Barbican in March, Strange and Familiar invites viewers to see Britain anew through a rich tapestry of foreign perspectives.

In a captivating interview with Artnet, renowned designer and architect Peter Marino discusses his role curating the new Robert Mapplethorpe exhibition in Paris, celebrating the iconic photographer’s work from 1978-81. Marino draws a fascinating parallel between their crafts, highlighting how Mapplethorpe’s deeply personal and obsessive subjects—flowers, nudes, and the New York sex scene—reflect his soul beyond commissioned portraits. The show, organized around the themes of sex (X), flowers (Y), and nudes (Z), features rare Polaroids and startling floral images that evoke tension and sensuality, with Marino likening one tulip photo to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. This thoughtful curation honors Mapplethorpe’s legacy while inviting viewers into an intellectual and emotional exploration of his artistry.

In 1976, renowned photographer Joel Meyerowitz embraced the challenge of an old-fashioned 8x10 Deardorff view camera, trading his familiar 35mm street camera for a slower, more deliberate approach during a summer on Cape Cod. The resulting series, Cape Light, captures the serene, luminous beauty of the Massachusetts coastline with exquisite detail and a fresh perspective on time and light, revealing everyday scenes transformed by delicate textures and subtle reflections. Despite the camera’s cumbersome nature and upside-down framing, Meyerowitz found inspiration in the work of early large-format photographers like Eugène Atget, discovering a new depth in his art that contrasted sharply with his urban street photography. Nearly forty years later, these evocative images continue to resonate, showcasing the quiet magic of slowing down and truly seeing the world anew.

Eleanor Macnair’s exhibition at London's Atlas Gallery presents a playful and inventive reinterpretation of iconic and lesser-known photographs by contemporary artists, recreated entirely in Play-Doh. Beginning as a whim from a photographic pub quiz challenge in 2013, Macnair painstakingly sculpts each image using simple tools before capturing them in photographs, then reusing the Play-Doh for future creations. This whimsical project highlights the beauty of form and color while celebrating photography’s diversity, featuring works inspired by legends like Nan Goldin, Daido Moriyama, and Diane Arbus. The exhibition invites viewers to rediscover familiar images transformed by unexpected textures and a touch of the artist’s fingerprint, blending homage with post-modern creativity.

Martin Parr, the renowned British photographer and president of Magnum Photos, has spent decades creating a captivating series of self-portraits taken in small photographic studios around the world. These images not only highlight the persistent charm of studio photography but also showcase an array of styles and playful reinventions of Parr's own persona—from retouched teenager to astronaut, Victorian gentleman to Jeffery Archer doppelganger. Celebrating the vibrant, oft-overlooked vernacular of high street portraiture, Parr’s work underscores the creativity and freedom found outside polished journalistic or art photography. His latest gallery offers both new and previously unseen shots, revealing how his photographic identity has evolved with humor and flair over the years.

Danny Lyon, a renowned photographer and civil rights activist, reflects on the ongoing crisis of police violence in America, linking it to the country’s dark history of racial injustice. Drawing from his experience documenting civil rights protests, outlaw biker gangs, and prison life, Lyon condemns the alarming rise of police shootings, emphasizing how systemic racism has shifted from civilian populations into law enforcement. Highlighting troubling cases like the killing of Walter Scott and the murder charges against Albuquerque officers, he calls for a national movement led by political, media, and religious leaders to tackle this epidemic before it claims more innocent lives. Lyon warns that unless decisive action is taken, anyone could fall victim to this brutal abuse of power.

Martin Parr’s first photo book, *Bad Weather* (1982), pairs striking black-and-white images of rainy British and Irish locals with a charming essay by longtime BBC weather forecaster Michael Fish, capturing the mood of stormy days through a distinctly British lens. Shot in the 1970s and early 1980s using innovative techniques to combat the wet conditions, these photographs mark the early emergence of Parr’s keen observational style, later celebrated in his vivid color work. Now a collector’s treasure, *Bad Weather* will be showcased in a free retrospective at Geneva’s Espace Jörg Brockmann gallery from February to May, offering a rare chance to experience this iconic series up close—and perhaps rekindle appreciation for both the art and the subtle humor found in Britain’s unpredictable skies.

Joel Meyerowitz continues to push the boundaries of his photography, drawing inspiration from bold leaps like Matisse’s late-career cut-outs and embracing new creative challenges. After relocating to Italy, he’s been reflecting on his journey through a groundbreaking documentary and a major retrospective curated in Germany, both of which have propelled him toward fresh artistic territory. Looking ahead to 2015, Meyerowitz is set to unveil a children’s book on perception, create monumental still-life sculptures for the Milan Expo, and showcase previously unseen work from his time in Franco-era Spain, proving that his restless pursuit of the perfect picture is as vibrant as ever.

In this haunting 1960s photograph by Austrian artist Günter Brus, we see a visceral performance piece that merges paint, the human body, and raw emotion to confront the dark legacy of recent history. Brus, a pioneer of Vienna Actionism, used his art to channel the horrors of the past, particularly the shadow of the Third Reich, through a violent, self-inflicted spectacle captured by press photographer Ludwig Hoffenreich. This image is more than just a painting or a photograph—it is a powerful, theatrical act of protest and atonement that pushed the boundaries of art and photography, forcing viewers to confront the brutal sins of humanity through a modern lens.

Brooklyn-born photographer Danny Lyon has long blended a keen, opportunistic eye with a deeply rooted radical idealism, capturing the spirit of protest and social change since the Sixties. His latest work, The Seventh Dog, offers a compelling, personal retrospective of his life and career, featuring powerful images from the Occupy movement alongside iconic series from the 60s and 70s like Bikeriders and Texas Prisons. Lyon’s commitment to immersion—often stepping beyond press boundaries to capture raw, confrontational moments—shines through in his storytelling, making this photobook a vivid journey through decades of activism and artistry, enriched by his own writings, collages, and rare photographs.

Sara Cwynar’s debut Manhattan exhibition, Flat Death, invites viewers into a nostalgic yet innovative space where forgotten product packaging and vintage printed materials are resurrected through her distinctive photographic process. Combining antiquated techniques with modern digital tools, she carefully arranges old images and objects, capturing them with a large-format camera before refining them digitally. Her work explores themes of memory, mortality, and the ephemeral nature of everyday items, blending simplicity with thoughtful composition that counters the grandiosity of monumental contemporary photography. Through her art, Cwynar captures moments that exist briefly in reality before fading away, evoking both presence and loss in a way that resonates deeply with our relationship to time and remembrance.

Danny Lyon’s The Seventh Dog is a captivating retrospective showcasing his lifelong commitment to photography as a tool for social change, rather than mere documentation. Arranged in reverse chronological order, the book journeys from his recent work back to his formative years during the Civil Rights era, revealing powerful images like the tense encounter with hostile police in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and the poised arrest of black activist Eddie Brown in 1962 Albany, Georgia. Lyon’s blend of striking black-and-white and color photos is complemented by personal writings, collages, letters, and never-before-published material, offering a deeply intimate look at his evolution as an artist and activist. The Seventh Dog not only chronicles pivotal moments in history but also reflects Lyon’s enduring spirit and the profound changes witnessed over decades, making it an essential exploration of photography’s power to document and inspire social justice.

Nan Goldin’s new book, Eden and After, reveals a lesser-known side of her work: a poignant, diary-like exploration of childhood and the intimate families within her life’s orbit over three decades. While Goldin is famed for capturing the raw edges of sex, drugs, and dysfunctional relationships, this collection shifts focus to her friends’ children, tracing their childhoods with the same honesty and emotional depth. In a candid conversation, Goldin reflects on her complex relationship with creativity, addiction, and identity, the challenges of recovery, and her evolving artistic journey, including a new ambition to venture into narrative filmmaking. Now residing in Berlin, a city that echoes the vibrant energy of 1980s New York, Goldin continues to document her “tribe,” even as she confronts loss and change. Eden and After is a tender testament to growth, memory, and the enduring human spirit seen through the lens of one of photography’s most uncompromising voices.

Danny Lyon revolutionized photography with his immersive, opinionated style known as “the new journalism,” blending vivid images with compelling narratives that reveal his radical ideals. In his autobiographical photobook *The Seventh Dog*, Lyon traces five decades of work, revealing intimate connections with his subjects—from defiant inmates at Texas prisons to members of biker gangs—through powerful photographs, letters, and collages. Stories of individuals like Billy George McCune, who fought for survival under harsh conditions, and Smiley Renton, whose troubled path took a darker turn, bring raw humanity to the fore. This richly layered collection also features Lyon’s more recent projects, including *Occupy* and *Indian Nations*, accompanied by insightful commentary, making *The Seventh Dog* a profound journey through a visionary artist’s life and lens.