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Henri Cartier-BressonFrench photographer
Date of Birth: 22.08.1908
Country:  France |
Content:
- Birth and Childhood of a Visionary
- Art Education and Early Influences
- Embracing Photography
- A Journey of Discovery
- Maturation in Marseille
- International Acclaim
- The Decisive Moment
- Legacy and Farewell
Birth and Childhood of a Visionary
On August 22, 1908, in the quaint town of Chanteloup-en-Brie, France, Henri Cartier-Bresson was born. The eldest of five children in an affluent family, young Henri developed a passion for photography that would shape his life.
Art Education and Early Influences
Cartier-Bresson attended École Fénelon and began studying music only to abandon it for the allure of painting. His artistic education continued at the Lhote Academy and under the tutelage of Jacques Émile Blanche. Amidst the буржуазной atmosphere of his upbringing, Henri defied his father's expectations of joining the family business.
Embracing Photography
In the 1920s, as a formidable 'photo-revolution' swept Europe, Cartier-Bresson found his true calling. He became disillusioned with his early works, deeming them inadequate expressions of his artistic vision. Instead, he ventured into the realm of photography, capturing moments of life with raw authenticity.
A Journey of Discovery
From 1928 to 1929, Cartier-Bresson immersed himself in English literature and art at Cambridge University. A chance encounter with Harry and Caresse Crosby sparked a deep passion for photography, leading him to abandon painting and flee to Africa.
Maturation in Marseille
Upon returning to Marseille in 1931, Cartier-Bresson's life took a profound turn. Inspired by Martin Munkacsi's iconic photograph, he ventured into the city streets to document the essence of humanity through his lens.
International Acclaim
Cartier-Bresson's reputation soared with his first exhibition in New York in 1932. His photographs graced the pages of renowned magazines. During World War II, he served, was captured, and escaped to document the horrors of war under false identities.
The Decisive Moment
In 1952, Cartier-Bresson's seminal book, 'The Decisive Moment,' revolutionized photography theory. He became the first Western photographer to freely explore the post-war Soviet Union.
Legacy and Farewell
Henri Cartier-Bresson, the father of modern photojournalism, left an indelible mark on the art form. His ability to capture the perfect moment, dubbed by him the 'decisive moment,' inspired generations of photographers. He passed away on August 3, 2004, at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of profound influence on the world of photography.
