17.2.11

Andreas Feiniger (1906 - 1999)

I mentioned Andreas Feiniger in my post on Friday and since then have been quietly stalking him on the Internet.  Born in Paris, to US-German parents he immigrated to New York just prior to World War II where he became a photographer for Life magazine.  Feiniger became famous for his depictions of New York and, particularly, Manhattan in the 40s and 50s - you can definitely feel the raw 'busy-ness' of what was still clearly an important Port City in all of his photographs.   It is perhaps ironic then that the picture of his I like the most is the last.  It couldn't be further away from the smog and chaos of an industrial port, but the open sky and the long straight road really appeal to me. 

11 comments:

Li + Belle said...

After your post on Friday I looked on the internet already curious to Andreas Feininger. His photos are so terrific, so meaningful. They show the old America. Simply beautiful. I'll see if there is now a picture book of A. Feininger. I am thrilled with his b / w photos completely.

Lisa Gordon said...

These are wonderful Clare!
And I have to agree, that I also like the last one the best, and for the same reasons.
Thank you so much for sharing this!

red or gray said...

hi clare .. i appreciate his work and the ones you chose ... such intensity!

Justine said...

absolutely wonderful shots, I love the light in the second and third one.

Anonymous said...

I like the last one too. Those clouds almost look like they are floating straight out of the photo! Thanks for sharing.

Jamie said...

His photos make me seriously consider a move to NYC! Amazing

Anika said...

They really are dramatic photos of everyday scenes. Love the lighting.

SJ said...

i agree, the last one is definitely my favourite. I love the 'welcome home' sign as well on the building. imagine coming into port to see that?

Kat Sloma said...

Since your post I've done a bit of stalking as well. Looks like his books are out of print and only available used. I look forward to hearing how they are, if you read any of them. I love the last image too!

urban muser said...

beautiful photos! thanks for sharing his work.

Diana said...

I feel silly to say I've seen his work but never knew the name behind them. Amazing.