Images of iconic musicians painted on a doorway in Kathmandu, Nepal.
If you're interested in American history or photography, you probably are aware of Edward S. Curtis's astonishing images of Native American tribes. His compelling photographic odyssey captured a rapidly-vanishing way of life for Indian tribes in the late 19th and early 20th-centuries. Many Indians referred to Curtis (1868 - 1952) as "the Shadow Catcher."
His vast body of work was lauded by President Teddy Roosevelt and financially supported by JP Morgan. Curtis's photographs are enshrined in the Library of Congress archives, as well as the Smithsonian and other museums, universities and private collections around the world. More than 60 years after his death, Edward Curtis's remarkable photographs continue to educate and enthrall.
Recently, I had the pleasure to become accquainted with James, author of the delightful blog The Cavender Diary. We share an enthusiasm for Edward Curtis's photographs. When James found out an Edward Curtis self-portrait was up for grabs, the quest was on... Read more at The Cavender Diary about how you, too can own an Edward Curtis photograph. And check out James and Jamie's stylish home!
You also may enjoy reading Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher by Timothy Egan.
P.S. Have you seen the fascinating documentary Five Broken Cameras? It's nominated for an Oscar and if you want to know more about the Palesinian-Israeli confict from the perspective of both sides (it's an Israeli/Palestinian co-production) Five Broken Cameras is enlightening.
I am very familiar with Edward Curtis -- our small historical museum on campus recently had an exhibit of photographs of Native Americans and of course Curtis was well represented. They are mesmerizing in how they reflect the soul of a person; there is a lifetime in his faces.
And now I am off to check out a new blog and another quest! Thanks!
Posted by: jeanie | 29 January 2013 at 04:35
I have not heard of Edward Curtis. Thanks for the education and enjoyed each link. This so well fits with the book I am reading about right now, Eight Girls Taking Pictures by Whitney Otto. The stories I have read so far take place during this same era. It is fiction, but definitely tells a story of early photography. I will be watching for more on Edward Curtis now.
Posted by: Marilyn | 28 January 2013 at 00:19