USA Food Photography
Vera Mercer is a German-born photographer who lives and works in France and the United States.
In the early 1960s she became part of the artistic avant-garde in Paris, which later became known as the "New Realists" (Nouveau Réaliste), photographing movie stars and avant-garde artists of the time. Later she found a new inspiration.
Mercer creates extraordinary large-scale photographic still lifes of food. With the right lighting and carefully chosen compositions of china, cutlery, fruit, seafood and game, Mercer's photographs resemble still lifes in the Dutch Baroque style. With burning candles and artful arrangements, the paintings, flooded with mystical light, are also a reinterpretation of classic vanitas motifs.
Edward Henry Weston, an American photographer, emerged as a significant figure in early to mid-20th-century photography, renowned for his meticulously composed, sharply focused images that spanned natural forms, landscapes, and nudes. His journey into photography began at a young age, receiving his first camera at 16 and eventually shaping a career that challenged and transformed the medium's artistic scope.
Edward Weston's move to California marked a pivotal shift in his career, where his interactions with other artists and his explorations of nature led to a distinct style characterized by its precision and emphasis on the intrinsic beauty of his subjects. His time in Mexico was particularly transformative, influencing his artistic direction significantly through encounters with key figures of the Mexican Renaissance and his introspective work that focused on detail and form.
Throughout his career, Edward Weston's work underwent several evolutions, moving from Pictorialism to a more direct and detailed approach, culminating in his involvement with the f/64 group, which advocated for photography that emphasized clarity and depth. His dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects without manipulation set new standards in the field, inspiring generations of photographers.
Weston's legacy is celebrated in numerous retrospectives and his influence continues in modern photography, with his works residing in prestigious institutions and collections worldwide. His deep connection to nature and commitment to photographic purity remain enduring aspects of his contribution to the art form.
For art collectors and enthusiasts, Edward Weston's work represents a fascinating intersection of artistic innovation and profound respect for the natural world, making his photographs coveted pieces in the realms of art and antiques. To stay updated on sales and auctions related to Edward Weston's work, subscribing for updates is a prudent step to ensure you remain informed about opportunities to acquire pieces connected to this influential artist.