125th Street: Photography in Harlem

Harlem's 125th Street is a significant urban thoroughfare that has witnessed a diverse range of stories and experiences over the 20th century. This book explores the works and themes of photographers and performance artists who have engaged with the constant mutation of this street-life, showcasing narratives of resilience and survival against the rapid movement of history. The photographs contribute to a new collective and collaborative history of photography that challenges stereotypes and mystification of the neighborhood.

Format: Hardback
Length: 172 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

Harlem's 125th Street is a vibrant testament to the urban experience of the 20th century, a bustling thoroughfare that weaves together a rich tapestry of stories about business, consumption, real estate, gentrification, glamour, entertainment, and political upheaval. This captivating book delves into the diverse works and themes explored by a diverse range of photographers and performance artists who have closely observed the ever-evolving dynamism of this street life.

The photographs featured in this collection serve as poignant narratives of resilience and poignant poems of survival against the relentless march of history that unfolds along 125th Street. Buildings and communities are routinely demolished and rebuilt, creating a sense of constant transformation and upheaval. These works powerfully evoke a sense of belonging and identity that challenges the prevailing stereotypes and mystifications surrounding this neighborhood. By contributing to the collective and collaborative writing of a new history of photography, this book plays a vital role in shaping a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the world around us.

Among the remarkable artists showcased in this book are Dawoud Bey, Khalik Allah, Kwame Brathwaite, Jamel Shabazz, Hiram Maristany, Ming Smith, Ruben Natal San Miguel, Isaac Diggs & Edward Hillel, Lorraine OGrady, and William Pope.L. Each of these artists brings their unique perspective and artistic vision to bear on the ever-changing landscape of 125th Street, capturing its essence through their lens.

Berenice Abbott, Khalik Allah, Alice Attie, Dawoud Bey, Kwame Brathwaite, Isaac Diggs & Edward Hillel, Lola Flash, Hiram Maristany, Ozier Muhammad, Katsu Naito, Marilyn Nance, Ruben Natal-San Miguel, Lorraine OGrady, Gordon Parks, Pope.L, Jamel Shabazz, Coreen Simpson, Beuford Smith, Ming Smith, Morgan and Marvin Smith, Shawn Walker, and Hai Zhang are just a few of the artists whose work is featured in this captivating collection. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of photography, contributing to the rich tapestry of visual storytelling that defines our collective experience.

In conclusion, Harlem's 125th Street is a living embodiment of the 20th century urban experience, a vibrant testament to the resilience, creativity, and diversity of human existence. This book serves as a powerful lens through which we can explore the complex tapestry of stories that unfold along this iconic thoroughfare, shedding light on the enduring spirit of human perseverance and the power of art to shape our understanding of the world.

Weight: 932g
Dimension: 208 x 261 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777437347