“I like to have information rather than just have a brushstroke. Just to have these words to put in these feelings underneath.”
~ Jean-Michel Basquiat
Jeannette Montgomery Barron's evocative portrayals of Jean-Michel Basquiat are nothing short of extraordinary. Her initial opportunity to photograph Basquiat in December 1984, courtesy of Bruno Bischofberger's invitation, led to an exquisite collection of images. Montgomery Barron approached the session with a minimalist sensibility, traveling lightly, which enabled her to infuse an unparalleled intimacy into her portraits. Over the course of the shoot, she expertly captured the essence of Basquiat, using three rolls of 120 film to chronicle the encounter.
Through her lens, Montgomery Barron not only offers a glimpse into Basquiat's enigmatic aura and artistic brilliance but also highlights her own remarkable creative mastery. Her distinctive style elevates the portraits to a level of profound artistry that transcends mere photography.