Who Was the First Director of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art in NY?

Art|Art Museum

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City has long been a bastion of modern art, and its photography collection has been a crucial part of that. Founded in 1929, the museum has always had a focus on photography, and the first person to be appointed Director of Photography was Edward Steichen.

Edward Steichen was born in Luxembourg in 1879 and grew up in Milwaukee where he developed an interest in photography. He moved to New York City in 1900 and began working as a commercial photographer. His work was soon noticed by Alfred Stieglitz, who ran the influential 291 Gallery, and this led to Steichen being invited to join the Photo-Secession group.

In 1905 Steichen was appointed head of the photo department at Condé Nast Publications, which allowed him to further develop his skills. During this time he produced some of his most iconic images including The Flatiron Building, The Pond at Shinnecock Hills, and The Grand Duke Alexis.

In 1923 Steichen was appointed as the first Director of Photography at MoMA. He remained in this role for two decades during which time he helped shape MoMA’s photographic collection into one of the most renowned collections in the world. He acquired works from photographers such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Dorothea Lange, Edward Weston, Man Ray and others.

Steichen’s tenure at MoMA ended with his retirement in 1943 but his influence on contemporary photography can still be seen today. He is credited with helping to elevate photography to the same level as painting and sculpture by curating exhibitions featuring works from both fields side-by-side.

Conclusion:

Edward Steichen was the first Director of Photography at MoMA when it opened its doors in 1929. His tenure there spanned two decades during which time he shaped MoMA’s photographic collection into one of the most renowned collections in the world. His influence on contemporary photography still resonates today.