Entry 7: Arnold Newman

Francis Bacon

1975

Alexander Calder,Woodbury, CT, 

1957

Eugene Smith, New York, NY, 

1977

Arnold Newman is an American photographer known for setting up his portraits in an environment.  What I found particularly striking was how he made his heads seem like they were floating.  In the first two photos I thought is was done really well when put into context with the environment.  The first photo the way the falls on Francis Bacon's face gives this photo an eerie quality like the viewer is looking up at his/her's assailant.  The uncovered florescent light bulb also adds to the murderous intent of this photo's feeling by making it seem like the environment is a hidden room or secret lair.

In the photo of Alexander Calder I think he captured his brooding expression well. I like how his head seems to be floating similar to the mobiles in the background.  In the photo of Eugene Smith I like how simple and close the portrait is. I like how it gives me a somber peaceful feeling. He is staring directly at the viewer but isn't intimidating or brooding.

For more Portraits http://www.arnoldnewmanarchive.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8&Itemid=9