The Travel Abstractions

[Siskind, Aaron] (1903–1991) ; [Photographer]

Places: Aaron Siskind Photographs

New York: Light Gallery / Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1976.

A  visual itinerary of Aaron Siskind’s mid-career travels, capturing the 'found' abstractions of the global landscape. 

Published in an edition of 7500 copies and designed by Malcolm Grear, this volume marks a significant collaboration between the Light Gallery and FSG. With an introductory essay by Thomas B. Hess, the book documents Siskind’s formalist explorations across Mexico, Italy, Chile, and the American West, further establishing his role as a pioneer of the photographic avant-garde.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Extensive black-and-white plates printed by Pentacle Press on Warren Cameo Dull paper. 
+++ Design: Typographic design by Malcolm Grear Designers; type set by Dumar Typesetting, Inc. +++ Content: Introductory essay by Thomas B. Hess; features 112 pages of photographic travel studies. 
+++ Imprint: Light Gallery / Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1976. First Printing. 
+++ Specs: 11.5 inches tall; 112 pages.

CONDITION: Very Good / Good. 
+++ The Book: Very good. Black cloth boards are sturdy with square corners. Internally clean and bright with tight bindings. 
+++ The Jacket: Good. Original unclipped dust jacket. Shows light rubs on the corners and along the spine edge. Remains a complete and presentable example of this 1970s trade issue.

SCHOLARLY FEATURES
+++ Design Pedigree: The use of Warren Cameo Dull paper and Pentacle Press printing highlights the high production standards of the 1970s photography book boom.
+++ Critical Context: Thomas B. Hess’s essay provides a vital contemporary link between Siskind’s photography and the broader Abstract Expressionist movement he helped define.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE — 
Places represents Siskind’s mature period, where the 'place' itself becomes secondary to the 'form' found within it. This volume was central to the mid-70s institutional recognition of Siskind, occurring during the height of the Light Gallery’s influence as a premier venue for contemporary photography in New York City.

SUBJECTS: Aaron Siskind, Thomas B. Hess, Light Gallery, Abstract Expressionism, Travel Photography, Malcolm Grear, Photography Monograph, 1970s Design.

Item #21715
ISBN: 0374232059

Price: $35.00