John Szarkowski Quotes
John Szarkowski (1925-2007) was an American photographer, curator, historian, and critic. He is best known for his work as the director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City from 1962 to 1991. During his tenure, he organized numerous influential exhibitions and wrote several bo…Read More
John Szarkowski (1925-2007) was an American photographer, curator, historian, and critic. He is best known for his work as the director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City from 1962 to 1991. During his tenure, he organized numerous influential exhibitions and wrote several books, including The Photographer’s Eye (1966), Looking at Photographs (1973), and Mirrors and Windows (1978). Szarkowski’s work helped to define and shape the modern understanding of photography as an art form. He was also a major advocate for the work of photographers such as Diane Arbus, Walker Evans, and Garry Winogrand.Read Less
John Szarkowski (1925-2007) was an American photographer, curator, historian, and critic. He is best known for his work as the director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City from 1962 to 1991. During his tenure, he organized numerous influential exhibitions and wrote several books, including The Photographer’s Eye (1966), Looking at Photographs (1973), and Mirrors and Windows (1978). Szarkowski’s work helped to define and shape the modern understanding of photography as an art form. He was also a major advocate for the work of photographers such as Diane Arbus, Walker Evans, and Garry Winogrand.
10 Interesting John Szarkowski Quotes
John Szarkowski Career Highlights
- Director of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): In 1962, Szarkowski was appointed as the Director of Photography at MoMA, a position he held for nearly three decades. During his time at MoMA, he curated over 160 exhibitions and introduced the work of many influential photographers to the public.
- Published “The Photographer’s Eye”: In 1966, Szarkowski published his first book, “The Photographer’s Eye,” which is considered a seminal work in the field of photography. The book explores the principles and techniques of photography and has been translated into multiple languages.
- Co-founder of the Department of Photography at MoMA: In 1940, Szarkowski co-founded the Department of Photography at MoMA, which was the first department of its kind in a major museum. This department played a crucial role in elevating photography to the status of fine art.
- Curated groundbreaking exhibitions: Szarkowski curated several groundbreaking exhibitions at MoMA, including “The Photographer’s Eye” (1964), “New Documents” (1967), and “Mirrors and Windows: American Photography since 1960” (1978). These exhibitions challenged traditional notions of photography and showcased the work of emerging photographers.
Key Contributions by John Szarkowski
- Championed the work of new photographers: Szarkowski was known for his keen eye for emerging talent and his ability to recognize the potential of new photographers. He introduced the work of many now-famous photographers, such as Diane Arbus, Lee Friedlander, and Garry Winogrand, to the public.
- Redefined the role of photography in art: Szarkowski’s curatorial approach and his writings helped redefine the role of photography in the art world. He believed that photography should be judged on its own terms and not compared to other art forms.
- Influenced generations of photographers: Szarkowski’s teachings and writings have influenced generations of photographers and continue to be studied and referenced today. His ideas on the “decisive moment” and the importance of composition have become fundamental principles in the world of photography.
What Sets John Szarkowski Apart
- Innovative approach to curating: Szarkowski’s approach to curating was innovative and groundbreaking. He challenged traditional notions of photography and introduced new ways of thinking about the medium. His exhibitions were known for their thought-provoking themes and unconventional layouts.
- Multifaceted career: Szarkowski’s career was not limited to just curating and writing. He was also a talented photographer himself and published several books of his own work. He also taught photography at various institutions, including Yale University and the Rhode Island School of Design.
- Legacy in the world of photography: Szarkowski’s legacy in the world of photography is undeniable. He played a crucial role in elevating photography to the status of fine art and his contributions continue to be studied and celebrated by photographers and art enthusiasts alike.
Takeaways
- Importance of curatorial vision: Szarkowski’s career highlights the importance of having a strong curatorial vision. His exhibitions and writings helped shape the way we think about photography and continue to influence the art form today.
- Impact of mentorship: Szarkowski’s mentorship and support of emerging photographers had a significant impact on the art world. His ability to recognize and nurture talent helped launch the careers of many now-famous photographers.
- Photography as an art form: Szarkowski’s work helped elevate photography to the status of fine art and challenged traditional notions of the medium. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power and potential of photography as an art form.
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