Manuel Alvarez Bravo: Polaroids

Manuel Alvarez Bravo is generally recognized as one of the masters of modern photography, and as one of Mexico’s most significant artists. He is well known for his black and white images, therefore this selection of never-before-published Polaroids might be a surprise to those familiar only with his signature style. The simple design of the book–a single photograph per page, reproduced in the original Polaroid’s dimensions–creates an ideal context in which to enjoy this segment of Bravo’s work. Colette Alvarez Urbajtel, the photographer’s widow “Although Manuel used a Hasselblad with special backing until his late career, when Polaroid cameras appeared on the market, he was quick to avail himself of their convenience and speed. He started taking black and white Polaroids with the appropriate fixtures, and then moved on to color. His work in color tended to be the result of some sudden impulse, when he had just supplied himself with materials or in quest of a particular effect. It might be at home, on the weekend, when there were people visiting, or when he wished to capture some prank of his daughters . . .” Beautifully reproduced, Manuel Alvarez Polaroids reveals a playful, charming and spontaneous side of the great Mexican master of light and shade, and is the first book on his work published since his death in 2003. It will appeal to those interested in photography and Mexican art in general.