Lisette Model

An Icon in the History of Photography

Organized by the National Gallery of Canada

 November 22 to December 21, 2009
 

Austrian-born American photographer Lisette Model (1901-1983) was the focus of this retrospective exhibition organized by the National Gallery of Canada and presented by Macdonald Stewart Art Centre. Model is an essential figure in mid-twentieth century photography. She challenged the prevailing conventions of her discipline. Her work continues to impact contemporary artists engaged in social documentary photography.
 

The exhibition comprises fifty photographs drawn from the National Gallery's collection of 293 prints by Model. The exhibition reflected the most significant stages in Model's 50-year career and exemplifies Model's well-known and intensely subjective approach to photography. In 1933 Model made a series of close-cropped, unforgiving portraits of bourgeoisie figures which were adopted by contemporary political activists who fought the distinction between the proletariat and merchant classes. Model's privileged upbringing gave her particular access to some of her subjects, enabling her to capture intimate and revealing portraits. These images of the sun-loving frequenters of Nice’s Promenade des anglais are still recognized as examples of Model's best work. 

Model immigrated to Manhattan in 1938 where her photographs became published regularly with magazines such as Harper's Bazaar. At this time she also became a member of the Photo League where she had her first dedicated solo exhibition.  In 1951, Model was invited to teach at the New School for Social Research, an institution of higher learning for students enrolled in multi-disciplinary degree programs. Model became an outstanding teacher, a vocation she pursued until her death in 1983.

Model's most oft-quoted directive to her students was: "Shoot from the gut!"

National Gallery of Canada curator of photographs Ann Thomas gave a talk at the Art Centre on Tuesday, November 16 at 3pm. Free to the public.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage (Museums Assistance Program)

Image:
Lisette Model, Sammy’s, New York, circa 1940-1944 (silver gelatin print, detail) National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa

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