Photography Appreciation
American writer and artistic photographer Carl Van Vechten was known for his portraits of famous figures during the 1920s and 1930s.
Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on June 17, 1880, he developed a passion for music and theatre. After high school, he attended the University of Chicago to study music, art, and opera, but as a student, he became interested in writing.
After graduating from college, Van Vechten accepted a job as a columnist for the Chicago American newspaper in 1903. He then incorporated photographs with his gossip column.
In 1906, Van Vechten moved to New York City and was hired as the assistant music critic at The New York Times.
Although he gained fame as a writer, it was his keen eye for capturing the spirit of his subjects that caught attention. He started taking portraits of his friends and associates in the artistic and literary communities.
He was drawn towards the music and art vibe of Harlem and was excited it generated from black writers and artists. He helped promote the develop the Harlem Renaissance in his writings and photographs.
Some of his most famous portraits included Gertrude Stein, Langston Hughes, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, Paul Robeson, Charlie Chaplin, and Josephine Baker.
Today, his portraits are treasured for their insight into the personalities and cultures of the 1920s and 1930s, and for their timeless depiction of the human spirit.
Sources:
Wikipedia
https://fineartamerica.com/featured/josephine-baker-1906-1975-carl-van-vechten.html
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