Masterclass: Arnold Newman

by William A. Ewing, Arnold Newman (Photographer)

Arnold Newman (1918–2006) was one of the most productive, creative, and successful portrait photographers of the twentieth century. For nearly seventy years, he applied himself to his craft, and he was rewarded by the regular publication of his work in the most influential magazines of the day. He also
had several major solo exhibitions, and his work can be found in prestigious photography collections around the world.
A celebration of Newman’s achievements and the first monograph to be published after his death, this book contains more than 200 images, many of which have never before been seen in book form. These include individual and group portraits, as well as landscapes, architectural details, and cityscapes.
Published to accompany a touring show opening in Berlin in March 2012, the book features quotes from interviews with Newman, short biographies of his sitters, and essays on this most deeply principled of perfectionists. The mainly black-and-white photographs showcase Newman’s remarkable talent—with subjects ranging from Truman Capote and Marilyn Monroe to Igor Stravinsky and Gore Vidal—in an homage to a true master of modern photography.

Genres: Photography, Art

272 pages, Hardcover

First published September 10, 2012

About the author

William A. Ewing is a Canadian art historian specializing in photography. He served as the director of the Musée de l'Élysée in Lausanne from 1996 to 2010 and has been a research professor in the art history department at the University of Geneva, where he has focused on the history of photography. He has curated numerous international exhibitions and authored several books on the photographic representation of the human body. He is also the founder of the Todi Circle, an annual think tank on photography held in Todi, Italy. His publications include The Body, Le Siècle du Corps, and Edward Steichen: Carnet Mondain.

Reviews

[Sarah Sharpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

As referenced in the book I am a "neophyte" (I had to Google that!) to photographic art however after seeing and reading about Newman's Krupp portrait I was keen to find out more about him. For a beginner this was a great book, although I had to Google a few terms it was a good introduction and learning experience to read it, and I now have a much better appreciation for Newman's work, and the work of other photographers. I will look forward to revisiting the images in the future!

[Josh S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong case for Newman's inclusion in both modernist and portrait artist canons. A good mix of his "environmental" or "symbolic" portraiture along with some rare landscapes and street shots. Good discussion of his process and methods. Very strong book; good for photographers and art history students as well as anyone who wants to see luminaries of mid-20th century shot as icons.