Imogen Cunningham

Imogen Cunningham was born on April 12, 1883, in Portland, Oregon. She was one of the most important photographers of the 20th century, known for her botanical photography, nudes, and industrial landscapes. Cunningham was a member of the California-based Group f/64 known for promoting 'straight' photographic styles. Her work spanned over seven decades, during which she became a significant figure in American photography.

In 1907, Imogen Cunningham graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle, where she had studied chemistry. This background in chemistry was crucial, as it provided her with the knowledge necessary to refine her photographic techniques, including developing her own prints. Her education laid the foundation for her future work as an innovative photographer who combined scientific understanding with artistic expression.

In 1910, Cunningham opened her own studio in Seattle, Washington. This was one of the first photography studios owned and run by a woman on the West Coast. She specialized in portraiture and photographed many leading figures in the arts during this time. The studio allowed her to explore various photographic styles and begin establishing her reputation as a talented and innovative photographer.

On February 11, 1913, Imogen Cunningham married Roi Partridge, a prominent printmaker and etcher. The couple moved to San Francisco, where they became centers of artistic influence and mingled with other artists of the area. Their marriage was both a personal and professional partnership, providing mutual support for each other's artistic endeavors. Cunningham's portraits of Partridge are notable in her oeuvre.

In 1932, Imogen Cunningham became a founding member of Group f/64, alongside fellow photographers Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, and others. This group was dedicated to promoting 'pure' photography, focusing on sharp detail and the use of small apertures for maximum depth of field. Group f/64 was influential in bringing modernist aesthetics to photography and had a lasting impact on photographic practice.

In 1934, Imogen Cunningham's work was featured in Vanity Fair, where she became renowned for her portraits of celebrities and people of influence. Her striking portrait of Martha Graham is one of the pieces from this period that garnered widespread attention and acclaim. Cunningham's work in celebrity photography expanded her influence and demonstrated her versatility as a photographer beyond experimental and naturalist themes.

In 1960, the prestigious M. H. de Young Museum in San Francisco held a retrospective exhibition of Imogen Cunningham's work, highlighting her contributions to photography over the decades. This exhibition covered her early work in the Pacific Northwest, her portraits, and her Botanical studies, affirming her legacy as a pioneer in photography. It was one of the first significant retrospectives of her work, underscoring her status as an established artist.

In 1970, Imogen Cunningham was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for her creative work in photography. This prestigious award was a recognition of her lifelong contribution to the arts and her continuous innovation in the medium of photography. The fellowship underscored her influence in the art world and provided her with further opportunities to explore and exhibit her work.

In 1973, Imogen Cunningham published 'After Ninety', a portfolio of images capturing the vitality and beauty of old age. The book was a powerful statement about life and aging, reflecting Cunningham's interest in the human condition and her ability to portray her subjects with dignity and empathy. This work challenged societal norms and contributed to changing perceptions of aging.

Imogen Cunningham passed away on June 24, 1976, in San Francisco, California. She left behind a profound legacy as one of America's foremost photographers. Cunningham's career spanned over seven decades, during which she played a key role in advancing photography as an art form. Her work continues to be celebrated for its beauty, technical skill, and pioneering originality, inspiring photographers worldwide.