Louis Stettner
By Charlotte Stace
American photographer, Louis Stettner, saw the art of photography as an instrument of social change. He viewed it as a way to celebrate life and demonstrate the courage of human beings in facing all of the ups and downs of existence to the fullest.
His experiences as a photographer during World War II and his strong belief in humanity significantly impacted his photographic output. His relationship with the Photo League, in particular with photographers such as Sid Grossman and Weegee, and his passion for literature and philosophy also had a profound effect on his work.
He captured everything from the routine of workers to the mountainous landscapes of the French Alpilles, and everyday life in the New York subway. The Fundación Mapfre’s exhibition on his work displays up to 200 of his photographs, including some never before seen images and much of his colour work.