Doris Humphrey - My Red Fires

1938
(American, 1900–1992)
Image: 27.3 x 35 cm (10 3/4 x 13 3/4 in.); Mounted: 48.4 x 40.6 cm (19 1/16 x 16 in.); Matted: 55.9 x 66 cm (22 x 26 in.)
This artwork is known to be under copyright.
Location: not on view

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Description

Sweeping contours and dramatic contrasts of light and shadow powerfully convey the intensity of focus in the pose and expression of dancer Doris Humphrey (1895-1958). The recording of modern dance, which occupied Morgan during the late 1930s and early 1940s, is the most significant achievement of her 50-year career as a photo-grapher. Key to her success in capturing the essential gesture was her extensive knowledge of dance, gained through careful observation. With her camera poised to fuse movement, light, and space, Morgan was able to anticipate and capture the most telling instant. The artist once remarked, "The ecstatic gesture happens swiftly, and is gone."
Doris Humphrey - My Red Fires

Doris Humphrey - My Red Fires

1938

Barbara Morgan

(American, 1900–1992)
America, 20th century

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