Popular New York fashion model in 1929 Lee Miller moved to Paris to apprentice with surrealist photographer Man Ray and joined an influential circle of artists. She and Ray worked so closely together that many of her photographs have been wrongly attributed to him.
Like many women, Miller’s work was often overshadowed by her male counterparts. A new book, The women who changed their photosj: And how to master their techniquesmarks Miller’s contribution to photography among 49 more groundbreaking artists who applied unique techniques to blaze a trail for future generations.
From the bold black and white faces of Zanele Muholi to masters of disguise like the French surrealist Claude Cahun (1894-1954) and contemporary artist Cindy Shermanidentity plays a crucial role in many of the practices discussed.
Iranian artist Shirin Neshatfor example, often delves into the complexities of being a woman within Islamic cultural and religious value systems. Pushpamala N. uses story and figuration in images that critique stereotypes of women in India.
Released last month by Laurence King Publishing, The women who changed photography describes the individuals, aesthetics and approaches that have shaped the field. Grab your copy Bookstore.
