Dorothy Norman 1930 - 1931

This is a photograph of Dorothy Norman, and it was made by Alfred Stieglitz at some point during his career. It's a small, intimate portrait. What strikes me first is the velvety texture Stieglitz coaxes from the photographic paper. Look at how the light falls across her face, softly highlighting the curve of her cheek and the delicate arch of her eyebrow. It’s tender. There’s a gentleness that reminds me of the way Morandi painted his bottles. It's not just about capturing a likeness, but about revealing something deeper, something about the relationship between the artist and the subject. Stieglitz was, of course, married to Georgia O'Keefe, another artist who knew how to make the most of simplicity. Both artists share a fascination with form and a dedication to their craft. They remind us that art is, at its heart, an ongoing conversation.