Duane Michals on His Photograph of an Unknown Meryl Streep
AnOther Magazine • • entertainment
Key Points:
- In 1975, photographer Duane Michals captured a portrait of an unknown Meryl Streep in New York’s theatre district, recognizing her talent before she became famous.
- Michals, already a renowned portrait photographer by the 1970s, is known for creating unique and idiosyncratic images of prominent figures in art, film, and literature, avoiding repetitive styles.
- His work extends beyond portraiture to surreal narrative series that combine text and photography, inspired by literary and artistic influences like James Joyce and René Magritte.
- At 85, Michals continues to create, recently making films with a humorous political edge, emphasizing the importance of humor and ease in art and life.
- Michals values photography that surprises and challenges viewers, aiming to reveal what they do not already know rather than reiterating the obvious.