The 'Turning the Page' exhibition at Pier 24 Photography showcases a remarkable shift by featuring photobooks rather than items from the Pilara Foundation Collection for the first time. This fresh perspective highlights how specific photobooks, like Robert Frank's "Les Américains" and Rinko Kawauchi's "Ametsuchi," have left a significant mark on the photographic narrative.
Exhibition notes explain how viewing context affects our understanding of these projects, echoing the same tone and intent of the photobook's design. Robert Frank's "Les Américains," with its relentless questioning of the American dream, alongside Masahisa Fukase's dark introspection in "Karasu," speaks volumes about how image sequencing can evoke different emotions and narratives.
The exhibition brings a new depth to classics and recent works alike. In Kawauchi's "Ametsuchi," the installation mirrors the photobook's sequence, creating a lyrical flow that guides viewers through its visual and thematic journey. Similarly, Vasantha Yogananthan's "A Myth of Two Souls" series, which encompasses seven individual photobooks, takes inspiration from the Ramayana, blending myth with imagery.
Breaking away from the conventional, Rose Marie Cromwell's "El Libro Supremo de la Suerte" takes on a Cuban charada-inspired sequence, making each image a piece of a larger, non-linear puzzle. Ed Templeton's "Wires Crossed" brings the skateboarding world to life through a vibrant, immersive experience that speaks to Templeton's unique perspective.
The thoughtfully curated works of Richard Avedon, Libby Black, Rineke Dijkstra, Helen Levitt, and others, transcend the medium, exploring photo evolution and technological advances. This exhibition is a vivid exploration of photobooks' transformative power, leaving one pondering the ever-evolving dynamics of photography.

The Irving Penn retrospective at the de Young Museum offers an unparalleled lens into Penn's extensive and storied career. Spanning nearly seven decades, the exhibition brings together 175 images that showcase Penn's versatility and keen eye across different photographic genres.
Penn's fashion photography is a standout, presenting a visual anthology of haute couture from the mid-20th century. His work for Vogue magazine, including iconic shots of his wife and muse Lisa Fonssagrives-Penn, melds elegance with an architectural sharpness. The "Rochas Mermaid Dress" from 1950 captures the era's exaggerated silhouettes, while his portrayal of accessories—hats, gloves, handbags—transforms everyday items into artistic objects.
Equally compelling are Penn's celebrity portraits, which depict stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich with a stripped-down grace that reveals their intrinsic essence. Hepburn, shown in a simple black sweater against one of Penn's muted backdrops, captivates with her unembellished allure. These portraits are intimate encounters that invite viewers into the very soul of their subjects.
One of the exhibition's most poignant sections is the Summer of Love series from 1967. Here, Penn's lens captures the countercultural revolution in San Francisco with the same careful attention he afforded to high fashion. His studio setups, with their consistent backdrops, bring a sense of equality to subjects ranging from Hells Angels bikers to hippie dropouts, reflecting Penn's profound respect for his subjects irrespective of their backgrounds.
Penn's approach to still-life photography is another highlight. His works from the 1940s, like "After-Dinner Games," juxtapose beauty and decay to startling effect. These images meld the organic and inanimate with the finesse of a master, offering viewers a feast of visual wit and originality.
Emma Acker, curator of American art at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, emphasizes Penn's innovative approach to capturing his subjects. She notes, Penn knew all about the people he photographed and was able to lead the conversation to get people to react to him. Then he would photograph them.
1 This method of engaging personally with his subjects allowed Penn to uncover the authentic person behind the public façade, producing portraits that resonate with timeless validity.
Also on display are Penn's underexplored nudes and his later works, which glimpse into the diversity of bodies and forms with a sensitivity that is both radical and respectful. His portrayal of tradespeople and everyday people from Paris further exemplifies his ability to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary.
The retrospective is more than a collection of images; it's a comprehensive narrative that mirrors the evolution of photography itself. It underscores Penn's contribution to the medium, blending technical mastery with a profoundly humanistic vision.

San Francisco's photography scene isn't just about visiting exhibitions; it's also about getting hands-on experience and engaging with community events. This spring and summer, the Bay Area offers a wealth of opportunities for photography enthusiasts to explore, learn, and connect.
One standout event is Meadowlark by Ian Bates at The Image Flow in San Anselmo. Running from February 3 to May 31, 2024, this free exhibit is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ian Bates' show will captivate attendees with his evocative landscapes that explore the subtle interplay between light and nature. These images are contemplative journeys that reflect on the serene beauty of the natural world.
Another must-visit is the Reception for Christina Fernandez: Multiple Exposures at the San Jose Museum of Art, happening June 7, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Fernandez's work examines themes of migration, labor, and Latino identity through poignant photographic series.2 This opening reception is a great opportunity to meet the artist and delve into the meaningful narratives that frame her work.
For those interested in honing their skills, the Zine Making Workshop at the East Bay Photo Collective in Oakland is a perfect pick. Scheduled for June 9, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, this workshop promises an interactive environment where participants can learn the art of zine creation from start to finish. Attendees will receive guidance on layout, design, and printing techniques, making it a comprehensive crash course in self-publishing.
The Gina Gaiser – Revisiting Oakland exhibition at the Manna Gallery offers another layer of engagement. Running from April 20 to June 1, 2024, the event is free, with gallery hours on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Gaiser's work revisits and reinterprets iconic Oakland landmarks, providing a nostalgic yet fresh look at the city's evolving identity.
The Annual Spring Exhibition at ImageCentral in Hayward, lasting from April 18 to June 8, 2024, is another highlight. With free entry and varied visiting hours, this exhibition features a range of photographic works that prod viewers to see the world through diverse lenses. Every piece in this show has been selected for its ability to challenge perceptions and evoke thought.
The 2024 CPA Members' Exhibition at the Center for Photographic Art in Carmel, running from April 20 to June 2, 2024, is not to be missed. Open Wednesday through Friday from 12:00 AM to 12:00 AM and weekends from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this exhibit celebrates the creativity of local photography enthusiasts. The show encompasses an array of styles and subjects, each piece a testament to the thriving photographic community in the area.
The June Photo Walk organized by the East Bay Photo Collective on June 2, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, will be an enriching experience for those keen on street and urban photography. Participants will traverse Oakland's dynamic neighborhoods, guided by seasoned photographers who will offer practical tips and techniques along the way.
San Francisco's vibrant photography events and workshops this season are set to educate, inspire, and engage both budding and experienced photographers alike. Whether you're seeking to witness compelling exhibitions or looking to enhance your craft through hands-on workshops, there's an event waiting for you.

- Acker E. Irving Penn: Resonance. Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. Published 2023.
- San Jose Museum of Art. Christina Fernandez: Multiple Exposures. Published 2024.








