----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2007 3:53
PM
Subject: Re: John Szarkowski, Curator of
Photography, Dies at 81
I am
convinced that God places people into our world who have but one overall
purpose; lay foundations for others to succeed. What a great and noble
purpose!
Notice that Mark says, "I am convinced . . . ." What
follows stems from his personal worldview, which I do not feel he is imposing
on us.
His work
enabled great photographers to emerge and become recognized for their work,
and in turn these influential photographers have touched our lives so richly
with written-light. Thank you, John!
This is the part we are asked (implicitly) to agree
with, disagree with, or discuss.
Yes well
that's very nice and cozy if you happen to believe in God. If you do
not then one needs to search for a different set of
values.
So, Richard points out that Mark is speaking from his
worldview, and Richard suggests his own worldview. Their worldviews may
disagree, but what about their views on John Szarkowski? I'm interested to
hear how Robert, and others on the forum, value the curator.
To what extent has John Szarkowski influenced us, and
has he furthered alternative process photography in any way?
More relevantly, who are the influencers in
alternative process photography right now? Do we artists feel alone in the
struggle, or do we have allies in the curatorial
world?