In the introduction to the book accompanying the exhibition, Erwitt writes, "Dogs are both an excuse and a reason for taking these pictures. They give me an excuse, because they make good subjects. I like them; people want to see them; I can't resist... But the reason for any one of these pictures is the same for taking a picture of anything. These are pictures -- not about dogs but about feeling, mood, graphics... Every one of my photos of dogs is meant to be a photo, not dog pictures, but dogs in pictures."
"Elliot Erwitt: To The Dogs" is on view at the Carlos Museum through Aug. 27. The exhibition will be accompanied by a smaller showing of Erwitt's photography from the permanent collections of the museum.
Born in Paris, Erwitt spent his childhood in Milan. His family moved to Los Angeles in 1941 where his interests in photography were born. While attending Hollywood High School, he began working in a commercial darkroom. Invited to join Magnum Photos in 1953 by Robert Capa, one of its founders, Erwitt has been a member of the prestigious agency ever since.
Throughout his career, Erwitt has focused his photographic eye in an incisive manner and has immortalized moments in human lives in an instantly recognizable style. As a photo journalist, commercial photographer and gallery artist, Erwitt has captured on film leading political figures and celebrities. Erwitt's photography has appeared in virtually every major magazine in the world. He has had several one-man exhibitions in museums and galleries around the country.
Two other events are scheduled in conjunction with the exhibit. On Saturday, July 15, at 10 a.m., a workshop titled "Picture This" will be held for children and their families. After examining how Elliott Erwitt created his images of dogs, participants will capture their own visions on film. The cost is $5 for members and $7 for non-members. Registration is required by calling 727-4280. On Sunday, July 23, Atlanta photographer Gary Super will present a gallery talk and discuss Erwitt's exhibition. The talk will be held at 2:30 p.m. in Taylor Gallery on the third level.
The exhibition is organized by Magnum Photos, Tokyo, and circulated by The American Federation of Arts. For more information, call 727-4291.
-- Anna Lalos