TAM: Paul Strand reading recommendation

If you want to read more about Paul Strand, but are overwhelmed by the choices, here are two books on Paul Strand that are recommended by Rock Hushka:

 

• “Paul Strand: Essays on his Life and Work” by Maren Stange (Editor), Alan Trachtenberg (Introduction)

From Library Journal
This contribution to the centennial celebration of the master American photographer/filmmaker Strand (1890-1976) is a tour de force. The 27 new essays by an impressive list of noted historians and writers, many of whom knew Strand, explore periods and photographs that have been less well studied as well as more familiar aspects of his life and art. As Alan Trachtenberg notes in his introduction, in treating the historical Strand--his politics, his relation to modernism, major phases in his 60 years in photography and film--the essays begin to restore "the figure to his cultural time and space," giving us a better sense of the person, allowing the living Strand "to be reclaimed from the classic legend." An important work for American art, photographic history, and American studies collections, it complements the current traveling exhibition mounted by the National Gallery and its accompanying publication Paul Strand ( LJ 1/91).
- Ann Copeland, Champaign, Ill.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

 

• “Paul Strand: An American Vision” by Sarah Greenough

From Library Journal
This rich publication accompanying a major retrospective traveling exhibition commemorates the centennial of Strand's birth (1890). Undisputably one of America's most important photographers, Strand took his inspiration from everyday life, trying to reveal the spirit of individual objects and exploring the relationships between people, objects, and their environment. In addition to his memorable portraits and still-lifes from New York and scenes from Taos, Mexico, Italy, France, and New England, Strand made many important films, such as Manhattan (1920), The Plow That Broke the Plains (1935), and Native Land (1942). Distinguishing this book are highly faithful reproductions of 104 black-and-white photographs , accomplished by a new six-color printing process, and 40 more printed in duotone. Including a number of newly published images, a fine essay by Sarah Greenough chronicling Strand's life and work, and letters and published writings by him, this book is highly recommended despite the high price.
- Ann Copeland, Champaign, Ill.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

 

 

Please remember that the above books are recommendations, and are not required reading.

Thanks for your time!

 

Heide Fernandez-Llamazares

Museum Educator and Docent Coordinator

hllamazares@TacomaArtMuseum.org

 

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