paris photo

My first time visiting a photography exposition of this kind. It was quite overwhelming with photographs on display from some of the current and past superstars of photography. I was particularly drawn to the works of the greats like Kertesz and Man Ray but also admire the work of Kander and Backhaus.

There were numerous works on display and for purchase. There, unfortunately was the disappointment of the show – the aim was to sell. The fact that the artists were present or were telling a story with their work was lost to price tagged displays of framed images. The fact that you could talk to the artist or have them sign your purchase did not celebrate them but commodified them. It was much like the fine art fairs where after a time the clutter of numerous works blends them into a sameness and monotony.

Yes, such shows offer an opportunity to see many works by many artists together in one place but this is to simplify the consumer experience and results in exaggerating the pretentiousness of the representing galleriests and often the artists also.

There is a clear division between represented and unrepresented artists but it has nothing to do with talent or quality.