Berenice Abbott

Photography Appreciation

I first encountered the name Berenice Abbott after learning about the renowned French documentary photographer Eugène Atget. Berenice Abbott, born on July 17, 1898, in Springfield, Ohio, was an influential American photographer known for her captivating images that document urban life. She attended Ohio State University before embarking on a transformative journey to Paris, where she studied sculpture under the guidance of Emile Bourdelle. Her time in Paris marked a significant period of artistic growth and exploration, eventually leading her to work as an assistant to the American visual artist Man Ray.   

It was Man Ray who introduced Abbott to the remarkable works of Eugène Atget. Captivated by Atget's photographs, Abbott requested him to sit for a portrait. Tragically, soon after their meeting, Atget passed away. This encounter had a profound impact on Abbott, shaping her own photographic journey. Inspired by Atget's documentation of Paris streets and architecture, Abbott dedicated herself to capturing the essence of urban life, particularly focusing on New York City.

Two of Berenice Abbott's most infamous photographs are "Nightview, New York" (1932) and "The Flatiron Building" (1938). "Nightview, New York" is a stunning image taken from a high vantage point, showcasing the city's illuminated skyline in a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The photograph captures the dynamic energy and architectural grandeur of New York at night. "The Flatiron Building," on the other hand, is an iconic portrayal of one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Abbott's composition highlights the building's unique triangular shape and its towering presence amidst the urban landscape. These photographs exemplify her ability to convey the spirit and vibrancy of urban environments.

Flatiron Building (1938)

Nightview, New York (1932)

Automat (1936)

Source: 

Wikipedia