“There is the world, and there is the photograph. The photograph is not the world, it’s a completely different thing,” said Henry Wessel in a “TateShots” video discussing his Incidents series at Tate Modern in 2014. Now, The Grolier Club in New York showcases his work with “Henry Wessel — Photographs and Books,” an exhibition of over 65 prints. This display celebrates his remarkable ability to turn everyday scenes into compelling narratives.
Originally from New Jersey, Wessel’s photographic journey began at Pennsylvania State University with a borrowed Leica camera. His career took off in the 1970s, marked by striking black-and-white images that explore landscapes and documentary styles. His move to the Bay Area, supported by a Guggenheim grant, led to a long tenure at the San Francisco Art Institute (1973-2014), where he captured the unique light and spirit of the area.
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Henry Wessel’s Captivating Series
The exhibition features Wessel’s complete Incidents and Traffic series, as well as selections from his Real Estate and Night Walks series. In Night Walks, he captured the essence of neighborhoods during quiet evening hours, taking portraits of homes with his tripod. His engaging approach shines in these works, drawing viewers into the silent stories of suburban nightscapes.
Traffic shows spontaneous scenes captured from Wessel’s car as he navigated the roads. He discovered the challenge of capturing a scene as it first appeared. Inspired by this, he began photographing directly from the driver’s seat, aiming to authentically capture fleeting moments. As he explained in an SFMOMA interview, “Luck is impartial. You have just as much bad luck as you have good luck. But you can do things to prepare yourself to receive the good luck. That’s part of the whole process of photographing.” His mastery of timing and perspective in these photographs exemplifies his gripping storytelling.
“Henry Wessel — Photographs and Books” also presents early works like “Untitled” from 1968, alongside series from the 1980s and 1990s. The exhibition is now open through November 14, offering a detailed look into Wessel’s unique perspective and enduring impact on photography. Each piece within the exhibition reflects his keen eye for detail and narrative, demonstrating why his work continues to resonate.
Wessel’s knack for turning the mundane into spectacle resembles how Brendon Burton captures the American West with ethereal beauty and historical depth.
Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
What series are included in Henry Wessel’s exhibition?
The exhibition features Wessel’s complete Incidents and Traffic series, as well as selections from his Real Estate and Night Walks series.
How did Henry Wessel begin his photographic journey?
Henry Wessel’s photographic journey began at Pennsylvania State University with a borrowed Leica camera.
When is the Henry Wessel exhibition open until?
The exhibition is open through November 14.