Steidl, 2008. First edition. First edition, first printing.
Hardcover with dust jacket, 152 pp., b/w and color illustrated, 208 x 245 mm. Photographs by Saul Leiter. Text by Agnes Sire, Sam Stourdzé. Design by Steidl Design, Rukminee Guha Thakurta.
Published on the occasion of Saul Leiter’s exhibition at the Foundation Henri Cartier-Bresson in Paris from January 17th to April 13th 2008.
“I started out as a fashion photographer. One cannot say that I was successful but there was enough work to keep me busy. I collaborated with Harper's Bazaar and other magazines. I was constantly aware that those who hired me would have preferred to work with a star such as Avedon. But it didn't matter. I had work and I made a living. At the same time, I took my own photographs. Strangely enough, I knew exactly what I wanted and what I liked.”
Since the 1940s, Saul Leiter, an inveterate walker, has trawled the streets of New York, capturing its colors and spirit. His liking for disarray, solitude and elusiveness make him a unique artist, quite unconcerned about joining the throng.“I spent a great deal of my life being ignored. I was always very happy that way. Being ignored is a great privilege. That is how I think I learned to see what others do not see and to react to situations differently. I simply looked at the world, not really prepared for anything.”
