Berenice Abbott

This insightful book on Berenice Abbott explores her pioneering photography and the impact of her work on both art and science.

Berenice Abbott was a groundbreaking documentary photographer whose work captured the rapidly evolving landscape of her era. This book showcases Abbott's remarkable contributions to photography, highlighting her ability to blend scientific imagery with artistic expression. Through detailed image-by-image commentary, readers gain insight into the context and significance of each photograph, allowing them to appreciate the depth of Abbott's vision.

The narrative begins with Abbott's journey, tracing her early years studying journalism in Ohio and her subsequent move to New York in 1918 to pursue sculpture. It was during this time that she encountered influential figures such as Marcel Duchamp and Man Ray, shaping her artistic path. Abbott's time in France during the 1920s saw her working in Man Ray's portrait studio, where she honed her skills and developed a unique style that would define her later work.

Upon returning to New York, Abbott embarked on her iconic Changing New York series, which not only documented the city's transformation but also reflected her fascination with urban life. This redesigned and expanded edition of Berenice Abbott includes an introduction by historian Julia Van Haaften, offering a fresh perspective on Abbott’s legacy, alongside a comprehensive chronology of her life. This book is a tribute to an innovative artist whose work continues to resonate today.