Portraits

Duane Michals: Portraits is a magnificent visual archive spanning more than fifty years of encounters between a legendary photographer and the defining cultural icons of our time. This elegant volume gathers together an extraordinary array of portraits, many of which have never been published in book form before. From intimate glimpses of artists like Andy Warhol and René Magritte to striking captures of performers such as Johnny Cash, Dustin Hoffman, and Tilda Swinton, Michals documents the giants of art, music, literature, and cinema with an unparalleled sense of closeness and curiosity.

What makes this collection truly remarkable is Michals’ signature subversion of the traditional, static portrait. Known for his narrative sequences and handwritten text, he infuses these editorial commissions with his trademark playfulness, intellect, and warmth. Each photograph is accompanied by the artist’s own handwritten recollections and sharp, sometimes humorous anecdotes, transforming a standard retrospective into a deeply personal, conversational journey through modern cultural history.

This book is a treasure trove for photography enthusiasts, art collectors, and anyone fascinated by the personalities who shaped the twentieth century. It serves as an essential addition to the library of those who appreciate the intersection of image and narrative, offering a masterclass in how to capture the fleeting, genuine essence of human character behind the public persona.