Alfred Stieglitz – The Eloquent Eye
A Documentary Film About Famous American Photographer and Artist
Sep 14, 2009
Alfred Stieglitz: The Eloquent Eye (2000) is an excellent documentary film about the photographer, publisher, gallery owner and art visionary, Alfred Stieglitz, (1864-1946).
Art Visionary
The Eloquent Eye reveals Stieglitz as a true art visionary and key player in the world of art history in the 20th century. Not only did Stieglitz cultivate the idea of photography as a fine art, he also discovered and championed many painters who went on to have long and influential careers in the art world.
Picasso Who?
Ever heard of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso? His first art exhibition in the United States was at Stieglitz' art gallery 291 located at 291 Fifth Avenue in New York City. This act alone places Stieglitz in the art history hall of fame. But wait, there's more. Stieglitz' 291 gallery was the first American art gallery to exhibit the work of famous French artists August Rodin, Paul Cezanne and Henri Matisse.
American Art Hero
Stieglitz also championed the work of young American painters such as John Marin, Arthur Dove, Marsden Hartley and Georgia O'Keeffe. Stieglitz' support and approval of these artists helped to define the direction of modernism and art for decades to come. Alfred Stieglitz was an amazing photographer in his own right. Other photographers influenced by Stieglitz include Edward Steichen, Paul Strand and famous landscape photographer Ansel Adams.
Location and Context
Location and timing are very important for the success of Stieglitz' career. Living in New York City at the advent of photography and during the industrial revolution provides excellent context for the development of what Stieglitz perceived as modern art. The imagery in Stieglitz' photographic work is largely of New York City, and lovingly chronicles the large-scale transformation of the metropolis of America.
The other famous subject matter of Stieglitz' photography is his partner and wife, the painter Georgia O'Keeffe, perhaps best known for her paintings of large, close up views of flowers. Stieglitz is clearly in love with the beautiful and striking O'Keeffe, whose wise eyes and long fingers lend themselves to sepia-toned, photographic reverie.
The Final Review
Alfred Stieglitz: The Eloquent Eye is at times a little slow and plodding. Some might find this art documentary a bit too scholarly and academic, as professors and art historians comment on the work of Stieglitz. In many ways, Stieglitz' story is inspiring because it illustrates how one person can change the direction of the art world through public support and art exhibitions.
Alfred Stieglitz photos are for sale here.
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