Fable

Magnum’s 10th Square Print Sale charts photography’s enduring ties to literature
By Ella Joyce | Art | 30 April 2024
Above:

Hotel lavatory. Moscow, Russia, 1989. © Harry Gruyaert / Magnum Photos

© Harry Gruyaert / Magnum Photos

Celebrating a decade of Magnum’s Square Print Sale, the photographic empire has collaborated with literary house Granta to curate a series of images which emulate the art of storytelling. Magnum first began working with authors in 1947 when co-founder Robert Capa and John Steinbeck captured the USSR together for 40 days, documenting life during the Cold War through a photojournalism project. Since then, Magnum has continually aimed to tie a thread between photography and literature, unearthing the universal qualities in each medium.

This year, Magnum invited three contemporary authors to delve into the work of 85 photographers, asking Sara Baume, Victoria Adukwei Bulley and Derek Owusu to pen winding narratives inspired by the stories they see written in photography. Aptly titled Fable, this year’s sale focuses on the foundational tales of human connection, unearthing stories of truths, vices and morality.

GALLERY

Featuring works from some of the 20th Century’s most prolific image makers, Elliot Erwitt’s striking black and white photograph of goggled Dalmatians stands alongside Susan Meiselas’ saturated shots of New York’s upscale S&M lounges and Philippe Halsman’s portrait of Alfred Hitchcock. Available for one week only, Magnums Square Prints Sale is a rare opportunity to purchase a pocket of modern day history.

Speaking on the 10th anniversary partnership, Magnums president Cristina de Middel said: “I have always believed that photography is primarily a language — a means to express yourself and communicate. In recent years, the confirmation of visual storytelling as a strong point of the medium has proven that the possibilities are endless. It feels like photography is finally owning its real nature and mission. Partnering with Granta for this edition of the Square Print Sale is a privilege that allows us to research the potential of combining image and text, together.”

Magnum’s Square Print Sale will be available to shop online until May 5th, more info here.

Pandora’s Box, Client Lounge, New York City, USA, 1995.

© Susan Meiselas / Magnum Photos

“Even if my photographs are untitled, I call it ‘Mrs. America.’” Woman walking on Fifth Avenue. New York City, USA, 1992.

© Bruce Gilden / Magnum Photos

British filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, during the filming of The Birds. USA, 1962.

© Philippe Halsman / Magnum Photos

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