Richard Avedon American, 1923-2004
Overview
Marilyn Monroe, New York City, May 6th, 1957
Richard Avedon (1923-2004) was an American photographer known for his iconic portraits of celebrities, politicians, and artists. Born in New York City, Avedon began his career as a photographer for the Merchant Marines during World War II. After the war, he became a staff photographer at Harper's Bazaar, where he gained fame for his innovative and intimate portraits of fashion models, including his famous 1950s "Dovima" image of a model in a bathing suit. In the 1960s, Avedon transitioned to more serious subjects, capturing powerful portraits of famous figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Eleanor Roosevelt, and the Kennedys. His work is characterized by its simplicity, directness, and ability to capture the essence of his subjects. Throughout his career, Avedon's photographs have been exhibited globally and are held in the collections of major museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the National Portrait Gallery.
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