The retrospective, which represents the largest anthology of Steve Schapiro ever organized in Italy, displays the artist’s most significant shots that celebrate his life, legacy, and a remarkable career as a photojournalist.
The exhibition offers a curated selection of Schapiro’s extensive archive, spanning nearly six decades and showcasing his iconic images capturing pivotal moments in American history.
From intimate portraits of political figures like Robert F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to behind-the-scenes glimpses of Hollywood’s most iconic films including The Godfather and Taxi Driver, Schapiro’s lens provides a window into the cultural and social landscape of the 1960s and ’70s. Additionally, his documentation of cultural luminaries such as David Bowie, Andy Warhol, and Barbra Streisand offers a unique perspective on the era’s artistic milieu.
“I am always seeking the image that conveys the spirit of the person,” Schapiro said.”At the same time, as a photojournalist, I want to create an image so that people will understand what news is being made.”
This dual pursuit of capturing the individual spirit while bearing witness to history is evident throughout his body of work.
Location:
Info
Location: Centro Culturale “La Tinaia” | Via dei Macelli, 1 – Sovicille
Period: September 28th – November 24th
Opening Time:
Friday: 03:00 pm-07:00 pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 am-07:00 pm
Holidays: 10:00 am-07:00 pm
TICKET VALID FOR VISITING ALL THE EXHIBITIONS
Photographer Biography: Steve Schapiro’s journey into photography began at the age of nine during a summer camp, where he discovered his passion for the art form. Inspired by the work of Henri Cartier-Bresson, he roamed the streets of New York City, striving to emulate his idol. Formal education came later under the guidance of photojournalist W. Eugene Smith, who not only imparted technical skills but also instilled a compassionate approach to photography.
In the 1960s, Schapiro’s freelance work became prominent in magazines like Life, covering a wide array of subjects from narcotics addiction to political protests. He also became deeply involved in documenting the Civil Rights Movement, capturing pivotal moments such as the March on Washington and Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination.
Transitioning to film in the 1970s, Schapiro worked on promotional materials for iconic movies like “The Godfather” and “Taxi Driver,” collaborating with notable figures in the entertainment industry. Despite the shift, his commitment to social issues remained steadfast.
His photographs, spanning civil rights struggles to celebrity portraits, have left an indelible mark on American cultural history. Up until his passing in 2022, Schapiro continued to document significant social issues, leaving behind a rich legacy of impactful imagery celebrated in publications, exhibitions, and museum collections worldwide.
