Fotografiska’s spring exhibition opens its doors to the world of Elliott Erwitt
Text Johanna Heinonen Photos © Elliott Erwitt, Magnum Photos
FRANCE. Paris. 1989. Eiffel tower 100th anniversary.
A retrospective photography exhibition, “Through the Playful Eyes of Elliott Erwitt”, opened at Tallinn’s Fotografiska, showcasing the work of legendary photographer Elliott Erwitt (1928–2023) from a seven-decade creative journey. The major exhibition of almost a hundred images showcases Erwitt’s unique ability to combine the lightness of life, humour, and depth with street photography. The exhibition opens on March 20–21 and will be open until the end of August.
The exhibition is a tribute to the extraordinary career and talent of the legendary photographer. Known for his ability to be in the right place at the right time, Erwitt’s images tell stories of everyday moments in life with a warm and light touch, yet never forgetting to be deeply reflective. The exhibition includes his iconic black and white images, rarely seen works, and colour photographs from the latter part of his career.
Born in Paris and raised in Milan, Erwitt moved to Los Angeles as a teenager, where his interest in photography was sparked. Later, in New York, he met great influencers in the field, such as Edward Steichen and Robert Capa. Erwitt’s career began in Europe in 1949, and in 1953 he was invited to join Magnum Photos. He had a distinguished career in photojournalism, fashion, and advertising photography, and directed documentaries and comedy films.
Erwitt also captured historic moments, such as President Nixon and Jacqueline Kennedy in the White House, as well as photographing major stars of his time, including Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, and Andy Warhol.
Maarja Loorents, the exhibition director at Fotografiska, describes Erwitt’s style as a combination of humour and deep emotion. “Elliott photographed life in all its richness, and managed to capture the most impactful moments. As a photographer, he never placed himself above his subjects, but rather put his model ahead of himself, whether it was a person or a dog. That is the mark of a great photographer. We have long dreamed of presenting his work on such a large scale in Tallinn, and it is a great pleasure to open spring with Erwitt’s exhibition,” Loorents comments.
More information about the exhibition and Fotografiska can be found here.
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