I always find it a bit strange when a famous photographer passes away, everyone and their cousin says they knew him. While highly influential, I never studied with either Larry Fink or Elliot Erwitt. I did meet them at specific times in my life. Did I have deep conversations with them ……. no. I met Larry at a gallery I worked for back in the early 1980s. Elliot I met at my eye doctor’s office that he went to as well. My eye doctor’s waiting room is covered with his work. I introduced myself once, but that was it. He shook my hand and didn’t say a word.
In that, I can’t call them mentors. Maybe more influencers. Did they influence my work?? I don’t know. Certainly not as much as other photographers I can name. I did highly respect their work. I think it is extremely important to find your own voice, your own way of working as did they. Does this belittle them? Not in the least.
I honor their memory and commitment to their vision. Their legacy will carry on.
Was that strange for Elliot to shake your hand and have no conversation?
It did feel very awkward. I wonder if the lack of verbal communication had something to do with him being married and divorced four times? But then, who knows.
Well now, that would have been quite the conversation.
You’re absolutely right in that we each, as artists, need to find our own voice, our way of showcasing and expressing our thoughts, our feelings, life.