Edward Steichen

Definition

Edward Steichen was an influential American photographer and painter known for his innovative work in both fashion and fine art photography during the 20th century. His career spanned several decades, and he played a crucial role in elevating photography as a respected art form, particularly through his involvement with modernism and the Pictorialist movement. Steichen's pioneering exhibitions and collaborations helped to bridge the gap between photography and painting, impacting the way art was perceived in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Steichen was a founding member of the Photo-Secession, which promoted photography as a legitimate art form and organized notable exhibitions.
2. His famous photograph 'The Family of Man' is one of the most celebrated exhibitions in history, showcasing humanity's common experiences through powerful imagery.
3. Steichen was also known for his commercial work, having photographed major fashion publications for Condé Nast during the 1920s and 1930s.
4. He transitioned from Pictorialism to a more modernist approach later in his career, embracing sharper focus and more dynamic compositions.
5. In addition to photography, Steichen was an accomplished painter and had a significant influence on both artistic movements and photography education.

Review Questions

• How did Edward Steichen's work contribute to the evolution of photography as an art form?
  • Edward Steichen played a pivotal role in changing perceptions about photography by showcasing it alongside traditional forms of art. Through his involvement in movements like Pictorialism and his groundbreaking exhibitions at institutions such as MoMA, he demonstrated that photography could convey deep emotional resonance and artistic vision. His ability to blend commercial fashion photography with fine art not only elevated the medium but also inspired future generations of photographers to pursue artistic expression.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Family of Man' exhibition curated by Steichen and its impact on societal views of photography.
  • 'The Family of Man' exhibition is significant because it presented a universal perspective on human experience through a carefully curated collection of photographs. Steichen's selection emphasized themes of love, war, peace, and family across different cultures, fostering empathy and understanding among viewers. This exhibition not only solidified photography's place in the art world but also engaged the public in critical dialogues about shared humanity, demonstrating how visual art could influence societal perspectives.
• Evaluate the ways Edward Steichen's commercial work intersected with his artistic endeavors and how this duality influenced contemporary photography.
  • Edward Steichen's commercial work significantly intersected with his artistic endeavors, creating a unique blend that influenced both realms. His fashion photography for magazines allowed him to experiment with lighting and composition in ways that elevated both art and commerce. This duality showcased how professional practice could inspire creative innovation, encouraging future photographers to embrace diverse styles and approaches in their work. The impact of this intersection continues to be felt today as photographers navigate both commercial projects and personal artistic expressions.

Related terms

Pictorialism: An early photographic movement that aimed to elevate photography to the level of fine art by emphasizing beauty, tonal qualities, and painterly techniques.

MoMA: The Museum of Modern Art in New York City, where Steichen served as the director of photography and curated groundbreaking exhibitions that showcased modern photography.

F/64 Group: A group of photographers that advocated for sharp focus and naturalism in photography, contrasting with the softer aesthetics promoted by Pictorialism.