With his uncanny ability at capturing the humorous and ironic in everyday situations, photographer Elliott Erwitt is often called a master of the “decisive moment.” And in a new exhibit in New York City, Erwitt himself has selected his favorite photographic moments from a career spanning seven decades.
“Elliott Erwitt: Personal Best” runs at the International Center of Photography in NYC through August 28, featuring 100 of Erwitt’s most cherished photographs.
Erwitt, who celebrated his 83rd birthday this summer, has been working as a professional photojournalist and commercial photographer since 1950. Later joining the Magnum Photos agency, Erwitt was able to travel the world and capture iconic shots such as Richard Nixon and Nikita Khrushchev at the height of the Cold War, a veiled Jacqueline Kennedy as she holds a folded American flag in honor of her slain husband, and a memorable image of segregated drinking fountains in New York City.
In his later career, Erwitt spent much of his time working with motion pictures. Directing everything from TV commercials to feature length films, including the prize-winning film Glassmakers of Herat (1977) and as a still photographer on Bob Dylan: No Direction Home (2005),
With his signature humor and effortless style, Erwitt’s work is so accesible and charming that it often belies his artistry. Check out his exhibit while you can.