Nan Goldin: I'll Be Your Mirror : Book Review

"Nan Goldin" by Elisabeth Sussman provides a deep and thorough exploration of the renowned American photographer's life and work. With her expertise as a curator and art historian, Sussman offers readers a comprehensive understanding of Goldin's influential career and her unique contributions to contemporary photography.

The book delves into Goldin's personal journey, examining the impact of her tumultuous upbringing on her artistic vision. Sussman skillfully weaves together interviews, anecdotes, and analysis to create a vivid portrait of Goldin's life, capturing the raw emotions and intimate moments that define her work.

Sussman also places Goldin's photographs within the larger art world, exploring the influence of feminist movements, queer culture, and the AIDS crisis on her imagery. By contextualizing Goldin's work within its social and cultural backdrop, Sussman highlights the political and social commentary inherent in her photography.

Throughout the book, Sussman emphasizes Goldin's commitment to capturing the complexity of human relationships. She offers thought-provoking insights into Goldin's choice of subjects, her use of light and color, and the evolution of her style. Readers will gain a newfound appreciation for Goldin's ability to convey vulnerability, pain, and joy with both honesty and tenderness.

Overall, "Nan Goldin" presents a compelling and illuminating examination of one of the most important photographers of our time. Sussman's engaging narrative, intertwined with a wide range of Goldin's photographs, makes this book a must-read for both fans of Goldin's work and those interested in the evolution of contemporary photography.

What are readers saying?

The book "Nan Goldin" by Elisabeth Sussman has received a mixture of reviews. Some readers found it to be an exceptional collection of photographs that vividly portray the harsh realities of life. They were deeply moved by Goldin's ability to capture the essence of urban life, showcasing love, joy, struggles, and the consequences of addiction. These readers found the photographs to be relatable and evocative, as they depicted the vulnerability and pain experienced by Goldin's subjects.

However, there were also disappointed readers who felt that the book lacked context and depth. They believed that without a proper introduction or explanation, the photographs fell short of their expectations. These readers found it difficult to emotionally connect with the subjects, as the absence of context made it challenging to fully understand the significance of each photograph.

Furthermore, some reviewers mentioned their dissatisfaction with the quality of the printing and reproduction of the photographs. They felt that the black and white images lacked the clarity and impact they were hoping for, which diminished their overall enjoyment of the book.

Despite these criticisms, many reviewers appreciated the inclusion of an interview with Goldin in the book. They found this section to be enlightening and it provided insights into the background of her work. This interview gave readers a deeper appreciation for the photographs and added value to their overall reading experience.

In summary, the reviews for "Nan Goldin" by Elisabeth Sussman are varied. While some readers were moved by the raw and emotional photographs that showcased the realities of life, others felt that the book lacked context and depth. The inclusion of an interview with Goldin was generally well-received, but some readers were dissatisfied with the quality of the photograph reproduction. Ultimately, opinions on this book seem to depend on personal preferences and expectations.

NanGoldin Photography Art