Driving with his wife and two assistants through the mountains of northern New Mexico, ANSEL ADAMS (1902–1984) chanced upon this aspen grove, its golden leaves bathed in sunlight. Getting out of the car, the photographers engaged in the pursuit of a perfect shot. Adams took pains to ensure that no sky was included in his composition as the brightness would have been distracting. His focus was on the long, irregular tree trunks. He initially considered color film but chose black and white, his preferred medium, so that he could enhance the contrast between the brilliant white bark and the forest shadows. The still day permitted a full second of exposure. (Aspen leaves shake in the slightest breeze.) Signed and numbered by the artist.

ANSEL EASTON ADAMS stands as the preeminent landscape photographer of the last century and is among the most beloved photographers in US history. A disinterested and rebellious student, he proved an exceptional autodidact once his father withdrew him from school at age 12. Initially pursuing a serious and ambitious study of music, he demonstrated a considerable talent for the piano. After receiving his first camera in 1916, he proved himself to be a gifted photographer as well. He balanced both disciplines during his 20s, but by 1930 he had resolved to dedicate himself entirely to photography.

In that pivotal year, Adams met American photographer Paul Strand (1890-1976), who shared with him the negatives he had captured in New Mexico. Adams was profoundly influenced by the straightforwardness of Strand’s images and their rich, luminous tones, and he committed himself to a pure and realistic photographic style, free from the influences of traditional fine arts such as painting.

By 1935, Adams had gained considerable recognition within photography circles due to a series of articles he wrote for Camera Craft. They were focused mainly on technical aspects, providing new insights and applying precision to the challenges of the medium. That same year, Studio Publications of London commissioned him to produce Making a Photograph (1935), a practical guide on the subject that predominantly featured Adams’ own work. The book achieved remarkable success, due in large measure to the exceptional quality of its letterpress reproductions. By this point, Adams had already settled on the themes and the immaculately flawless style that would characterize his output.

Most of Adams’ important production was complete by 1950. In the remaining part of his life, he devoted efforts to reinterpreting earlier creations and compiling volumes of his work. In 1980, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Jimmy Carter. The citation recognized Adams’ dedication as both a photographer and an environmental advocate.

Life is your art. An open, aware heart is your camera. A oneness with your world is your film. – ANSEL ADAMS

DETAILS

Artist – ANSEL EASTON ADAMS (1902—1984)

Period/Year – 1958

Origin – USA

Styles/Movements – REALISM

Media – MEDIA

Support – SUPPORT

Edition – EDITION

Colors – BLACK, WHITE

Condition – Excellent vintage condition. May show minor signs of previous ownership and use.

Dimensions – 36" H × 25 ¾" W × 1" D