Minor White (1908-1976) was a closeted gay photographer who secretly took male nudes in the 1940s and 50s. Better known for his work with natural and architectural themes, his photos appear in any number of fine museums and collections. I was not able to find any documented self portraits of Mr. White, but the above item from 1951 is quite good and listed as "photographer unknown" in the Princeton University collection. For those of you who enjoy fine art photography that doesn't involve male nudity, do a Google Images search and treat yourself to a feast. It is astounding.
The work of Minor White in Portland is significant because there he was working far from the center of American photography, NYC and its artistic circle.
ReplyDeleteEventually White was brought to their attention, not an easy feat.:)
Mr. White's male nudes were a private and tiny element of his work. If you look at his photos of nature and architecture, you'll see why he broke into the NYC scene.
DeleteSome photos by White of buildings in Portland were shown at an exhibit in NYC and brought White to their attention.:)
DeleteUnfortunate that male nudes were not well accepted then.:(