Astonish me Alexey
“Astonish me,” Alexey Brodovitch would say to the artists, photographers and designers that he directed through his career.
Brodovitch, a legend as the art director of Harper’s Bazaar from 1934 to 1958, pioneered the role of the modern art director. He took an active role in conceiving and commissioning all forms of art. Brodovitch incorporated the work of major European artists including Man Ray and photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson and Brassai, while nurturing American photographers Irving Penn and Richard Avedon.
In addition to his work at the magazine, Alexey Brodovitch collaborated on three issues of Portfolio, considered by many to be the quintessential arts and culture publication and some of his best work. Portfolio was utopian in conceit: complete creative freedom and no advertising. Brodovitch employed existing and emerging talent, commissioned new art, added tip-ins – such as the Paul Rand piece below, and used beautiful printing techniques. Needless to say, Portfolio was short-lived. Two issues published in 1950, and the third, in 1951. As a proud owner of the complete set, I’d like to share some extraordinary pages.
What do you think of today’s popular magazines?
February 9th, 2009 at 6:36 am
I don’t envy the people having been given the task of impressing Brodovitch.
February 9th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Hi Bruno:
Welcome to the curious g.
I agree, it could not have been an easy task. Still, I would have liked the opportunity to try.
Thanks,
g