The publication of The Americans in 1958 reshaped the trajectory of photography, presenting an outsider's unfiltered examination of United States society. Robert Frank, born in Zurich in 1924, traveled extensively across the country during the mid-1950s. His collection of 83 photographs distilled 28,000 individual images into a singular, lasting narrative of mid-century life.
Early Development and Career
Frank trained under various photographers and graphic designers in Switzerland before creating his first hand-made book, 40 Fotos, in 1946. He worked for Atelier Eidenbenz and was later mentored by Michael Wolgensinger in Zurich. In 1947, he emigrated to the United States and secured employment at Harper's Bazaar in New York City. His early career also included travels through Peru and Europe, leading to another hand-made book of photographs.
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With the support of a Guggenheim Fellowship awarded in 1955, Frank spent two years capturing the various social strata of the United States. He traveled through locations including Detroit, Savannah, New Orleans, Chicago, and Los Angeles. During these journeys, he encountered significant personal challenges, including instances of anti-Semitism in the South. Upon his return to New York in 1957, he collaborated with Jack Kerouac, who provided the introduction for the American edition of his book.
Transition to Cinema and Art
Beyond his primary contributions to still photography, Frank worked as a film director, screenwriter, and cinematographer. He expanded his creative output to include video art, photomontage, and the manipulation of images. His multidisciplinary approach characterized a long career that bridged the mediums of film and photography. Frank held citizenship in both Switzerland and the United States throughout his life.
Awards and Recognition
The contributions of Robert Frank were recognized by institutions throughout his career. He was a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters and the German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina. Major honors include the Dr. Erich Salomon Prize in 1985, the Hasselblad Award in 1996, and the Swiss Press Photo Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. He passed away in 2019 in Inverness.
Fast facts
- Born: 1924, Zurich
- Died: 2019, Inverness
- Notable work: The Americans
- Citizenship: United States; Switzerland
- Major award: Hasselblad Award (1996)
- Professional affiliations: Atelier Eidenbenz
Questions readers ask
What was Robert Frank's most influential project?
His 1958 book, The Americans, is considered his most significant and influential body of work.
Where did Robert Frank travel for his Guggenheim project?
He visited numerous cities across the United States, including Detroit, Savannah, Miami Beach, New Orleans, Houston, Los Angeles, Reno, Salt Lake City, Butte, and Chicago.
Achievements
- Notable work: The Americans
- Affiliated with Atelier Eidenbenz
- Worked as film director, photographer and cinematographer