Photography

The collection was begun by a transformative gift by Baroness Jeane von Oppenheim in 1998. It has particular strengths in works by European modern masters such as Alexander Rodchenko, August Sander and Albert Renger–Patzch; examples by Bauhaus principals Lazlo Moholy-Nagy and Gyorgy Kepes; and significant holdings by husband-and-wife, Dusseldorf artists Bernd and Hilla Becher. Strategic acquisitions through the generosity of the Photography Committee, the William and Sarah Ross Soter Photo Fund, and other supporters have bolstered mid-century American holdings include works by Danny Lyon, Larry Clark, Bruce Davidson, William Eggelston, Dave Heath and Ralph Gibson; and a contemporary, international emphasis anchored by significant works from Sophie Calle, Tacita Dean, Thomas Demand, Gilbert and George, Candida Höfer, Alfredo Jaar, Hiroshi Sugimoto and Jeff Wall. A significant new promised gifts include photo-based work by Matthew Barney, Cindy Sherman, Lorna Simpson, Pipilotti Rist, and Bill Viola.
Highlights from the Photography Collection

Edward Weston (American, 1886-1958), Shell and Rock Arrangement, 1931, printed circa 1947

Ellen Graham (American, born 20th century), Valentina Schlee, Venice Lido, Italy, 1951

Bruce Davidson (American, born 1965), Wales, 1965

Candida Höfer (German, born 1944), Spiegelkantine III, 2000

Simon Norfolk (Nigerian, born 1963), North Gate of Baghdad, 2003