Helen Levitt by Phillips, Sandra S. & Maria Morros Hambourg - 1991

San Francisco: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Near Fine in Very Good dust jacket. 1991. 1st Hardback Edition. Hardcover. 0918471222 . With b/w & coloured plates & illustrations. Dustjacket in plastic protective wrap. Small tear in top margin dustjacket & slight wear & slight soiling to dustjacket. Light wear to spine, covers & corners. ; "Helen Levitt," published in 1992, is a retrospective monograph celebrating the influential work of one of the foremost street photographers of the twentieth century. The book captures Levitt's exceptional ability to find poetry in the everyday lives of ordinary people, particularly those of New York City's more neglected neighborhoods. Her candid black-and-white photos, taken primarily from the 1930s through the 1950s, offer a window into the spontaneous interactions and playful moments of city dwellers, especially children. Levitt's work is characterized by its empathy, humor, and an uncanny timing, which together reveal the depth and richness of urban life. This collection not only highlights her pioneering use of color film in street photography during the 1960s but also solidifies her legacy as a master of the candid genre, capturing the essence and vitality of human experiences in public spaces. This book is part of the photography library of Chris Steele-Perkins, whose involvement with Magnum Photos reflects a deep engagement with documentary and street photography, akin to Helen Levitt’s focus. Steele-Perkins has built his career on exploring social realities and cultural identities, particularly within marginalized communities. Owning Levitt's monograph aligns with his commitment to capturing human stories, emphasizing the spontaneity and dignity of everyday life, themes central to Levitt's work. His role in Magnum has not only facilitated his exploration of these themes globally but also allowed him to influence and inspire through his powerful visual narratives. The inclusion of Levitt's book in Steele-Perkins' collection underscores a shared appreciation for street photography's ability to document the social landscape and reflect societal changes through the lens of the everyday. ; Quarto; 63 & 84 plates pages .