In 1968 photographer Bill Cunningham, who died last year at the age of 101, began an eight year project photographing the great architectural facades of New York City. The catch in Mr. Cunningham’s photoseries was that he posed models in front of the building who were dressed in the period clothing of the year that the building or structure was constructed. The result is a fascinating combination of historical context, apparent anachronism, and often poignant commentary.
I think that one of my favorite images is that of model Editta Sherman riding the subway for a photoshoot at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in 1972 dressed in a Victorian period costume. Ms. Sherman is the picture of an imagine dainty time. She sits among the dirt and graffiti of modern New York – and we are left to imagine what has changed, what has been lost, and yes, even what has been gained.
There is a exhibitr of these works on exhibition of the Museum of the New York Historical Society that contains many images from the project not seen before. And I should also comment that the NYHS is a treasure trove of historical images that document that history and vitality of New York City. The exhibition is on display now through June 15th.