Marie Cosindas' painterly and sensual photographs made an indelible impression on me when I first saw them, over 40 years ago. Displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in 1966, they reveal the artistry of a woman who was never swayed by the prevailing fashions. Yet her deep respect for her fellow artists is apparent in her portraits of them, and the inclusion of their work as backdrops.
Cosindas' collection features many celebrities of the 60's, such as Tom Wolfe, who wrote an entertaining and affectionate introduction, Andy Warhol, Faye Dunaway, Viva, Richard Merkin, Coco Chanel, Paul Newman with Robert Redford, etc. Just as compelling are portraits of sailors squatting on their haunches, circus performers, and children, and luminous still life studies. The poses are iconic, yet startlingly personal. Remarkably, she achieved her painterly effects with Polaroid film - no darkroom work or PhotoShop to enhance textures, balance tones, etc. The study of masks on the cover is representative of her palette.
I highly recommend this book.