Photo Ranch: 2008

It was in a bookstore in Mexico City many years ago. Probably the landmark "Ghandi" store downtown across from the Bellas Artes Concert Hall. I came across a thick book of black and white photos by Manuel Alvarez Bravo, one of the greats of 20th century Mexican photography. The photos in this book, however, werent the commonplace associated with him. They were from his later years. He lived to 100 (1902-2002). Some were taken through the windshield of a car. The informal, messy details were very personal and caused me emotion, melancoly. I realized my standards were arbitrary. He amplified them. Today, searching the internet I couldnt find examples of the photos. And perhaps seeing them now wouldnt move me similarly. Here is a link to his bio and earlier work: http://www.getty.edu/art/gettyguide/artMakerDetails?maker=1740&page=12