With the addition of the Hallmark Photographic Collection in 2006, the Nelson-Atkins jumped to the top of the heap in the world of photography. Opening this Saturday, In the Public Eye: Photography and Fame, gives another great example why that is true.
I popped into the gallery yesterday to find the curators and preparators in full swing. There are 44 photographs in the exhibition and many of them are no larger than 8 x 10 inches. The exhibition takes up 2 small galleries but it packs a big punch.
The subject of the exhibition will make it quite popular with many people (the fact that there is no admission fee is definitely a plus). What I think is more interesting is the choice of images. There are images of Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Spencer Tracy, Meryl Streep that are beautiful. There are also images of Ulysses S. Grant, Richard Nixon, Wilt Chamberlin, Iggy Pop and Babe Ruth. But my favorite section is the "artists corner." There is an image of Constantin Brancusi in his studio (be sure to check out the frame), a portrait of Pablo Picasso and this image of Piet Mondrian with one of his paintings (see above). I like the twist of creating a work of art out of the image of an artist.
The exhibition opens to the public on Saturday. If you are a member, you may see it Thursday or Friday. Be sure to bring your membership card and a smile!