Arnold Newman photo analysis




A classic example of Arnold Newman’s portraits, this photo captures the subject in their usual surroundings.  In this skillful way Newman is able to pay homage to the subject themselves while also acknowledging who they are.  Setting the photograph up in this way also has the further advantage of allowing the subject’s work and/or art to be honored. Arnold Newman’s portraits always capture the soul and essence of the subject, and it’s no different with this photo of Pablo Picasso.


By placing Picasso in the center of the photo Newman sends the clear signal that he is the most important feature in the photograph. Our eye goes directly to him rather than anything else. The way he is sitting instantly makes him stand out against the art and everything else in the room.  Having him sit on the back of the chair is different and a slightly unusual sitting position which makes us instantly focus on him because it’s odd and stands out.  It was also a genius move in that his posture slightly mirror that of the figure of the painting and it literally brings him on a level with his art, calling our attention to that next. 
    

There is a natural flow from Picasso to the picture to the left of him and finally to the slightly bigger longer picture hanging on the wall in the background.  This natural flow emphasizes how important his art is, not only in the picture but to Picasso himself. In this way the photo calls attention to the art and venerates it at the same time. That’s also a very smooth way to let the viewer know exactly where the photo was taken—most likely in Picasso’s studio.

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