Claudio Abate: A Project by Germano Celant

This monograph is the first to systematically trace the life and career of photographer Claudio Abate (Rome, 1943-2017). It offers a historical and critical reading of Abate's work, documented through a chronology full of illustrations, unpublished materials, texts, and quotations. Abate's production ranges from photographs of artworks, artists, and exhibitions of Arte Povera to shots on the Italian and international exhibition scene, to photographs on theatre, fashion, costume, current affairs for weeklies and magazines, and even experimental photographic artworks.

Format: Hardback
Length: 536 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Silvana

This monograph, which Germano Celant worked on before his demise and is published posthumously with an introductory text by Carlos Basualdo, is the first to systematically retrace the life and career of photographer Claudio Abate (Rome, 1943-2017). The book offers a historical and critical reading of Abates work, documented through a chronology full of illustrations, unpublished materials, texts, and quotations. Abates production ranges from photographs of artworks, artists, and exhibitions of Arte Povera to shots on the Italian and international exhibition scene, up to photographs on theatre, fashion, costume, current affairs for weeklies and magazines, even experimental photographic artworks. In an all-encompassing vision, Abate puts the photographic medium to the test by adapting it to multiple fields, disciplines, themes, and subjects.

Introduction:
This monograph, which Germano Celant worked on before his demise and is published posthumously with an introductory text by Carlos Basualdo, is a groundbreaking exploration of the life and career of photographer Claudio Abate. It represents the first comprehensive account of Abates remarkable journey, meticulously researched and written by Celant himself. The book is a testament to Celants dedication to the art of photography and his unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of his fellow artists.

The Life and Career of Claudio Abate:
The monograph delves into the rich tapestry of Claudio Abates life and career, providing a comprehensive account of his artistic achievements. It traces Abates origins in Rome, where he was born in 1943, and his early influences and inspirations. Abates journey as a photographer is marked by his versatility and adaptability, as he explored various genres and subjects throughout his career.

From his early photographs of artworks, artists, and exhibitions of Arte Povera to his shots on the Italian and international exhibition scene, Abate showcased his exceptional talent and artistic vision. His work encompassed a wide range of subjects, including theatre, fashion, costume, current affairs, and experimental photographic artworks. Abates ability to adapt his photographic medium to diverse fields and disciplines was a testament to his artistic versatility and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium.

One of the defining characteristics of Abates work is his all-encompassing vision. He approached photography with a holistic perspective, seeking to capture the essence of his subjects and convey their stories through his images. Abates photographs were not merely snapshots of reality but rather carefully crafted works of art that reflected his deep understanding of the human condition and the world around him.

Through his photographs, Abate explored themes of identity, culture, and society. He captured the essence of individuals and communities, revealing their unique perspectives and experiences. His work often spoke to social and political issues, challenging viewers to engage with the world from a different lens. Abates photographs were not only visually stunning but also emotionally powerful, leaving a lasting impact on those who encountered them.

In addition to his artistic achievements, Abate was also a mentor and educator. He played a significant role in shaping the careers of many aspiring photographers and artists. His studio, Studio Abate, became a hub of creativity and experimentation, where artists could come together to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of their art.

The monograph concludes with a tribute to Claudio Abates legacy, highlighting his contributions to the world of photography and his impact on the artistic community. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and enthusiasts alike, providing a comprehensive understanding of Abates life and work.

In conclusion, this monograph is a remarkable achievement that pays homage to the life and career of photographer Claudio Abate. It offers a historical and critical reading of Abates work, documented through a wealth of illustrations, unpublished materials, texts, and quotations. Through his all-encompassing vision and artistic versatility, Abate left an indelible mark on the world of photography, inspiring generations of artists and pushing the boundaries of the medium. This book is a testament to Celants dedication to the art of photography and his commitment to preserving the legacy of his fellow artists.

Weight: 3692g
Dimension: 251 x 309 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788836648528