Far from the iconic pin-up images we’re accustomed to, this contact sheet for a 1952 Life photo shoot captures Marilyn Monroe just as the camera found her, practicing poses in her apartment.
It’s one of 150 contact sheets on display in PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet, arriving at the Cleveland Museum of Art Feb. 7.
The exhibit features an impressive display of 20th century photography, including many images never originally intended to be publicly displayed.
“It’s like looking at a major photographer’s rough drafts,” says Heidi Strean, CMA director of exhibitions and publications.
Featuring many photos shot for ad campaigns or cover shoots, the show contains rich gelatin silver prints of celebrities in surprising moments (like the Beatles snapped mid-pillow fight), plus shots from influential photographers such as Diane Arbus.
“It’s kind of a glimpse into the heyday of advertising and print magazines,” says Strean. 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org
The Lost Art Of The Contact Sheet
The photography exhibit at Cleveland Museum of Art offers a behind-the-scenes look at photo shoots featuring the Beatles, Marilyn Monroe and more.
