Legendary French-American photographer Elliott Erwitt dies aged 95

Published on 01/12/2023 - 10:45

The world of photography mourns a singular talent, whose images "have helped build our general understanding of who we are as a society and as humans."

Celebrated French-American photographer Elliott Erwitt, known for his black and white images depicting both the mundanity and absurdity of life, has died at 95.

He died "peacefully at home surrounded by family," Magnum, the collective of photographers that he had been part of since 1953, said in a statement.

Born Elio Romano Ervitz to Russian-Jewish parents in Paris in 1928, Erwitt spent his childhood in Milan, and emigrated to the US in 1939 when fascism drove his family out of Italy.

He joined Magnum Photos in 1953 and worked as a freelance photographer for several outlets, including Collier’s, Look, LIFE, Holiday.

Erwitt was known for freezing significant cultural and political moments (the 1959 moment of tension between Nikita Khrushchev and Richard Nixon during the diplomatic visit that went on to be known as the Kitchen Debate), as well as some iconic shots of celebrities (Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Jacqueline Kennedy) and animals. Especially dogs.

He did nothing short of capture the silent surrealism and humour of humanity throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

In an extended remembrance of his life, Magnum said Erwitt would be remembered for "seeking out the most absurd and charming moments of life".

"It was Erwitt's firm belief that photography should speak to the senses and emotions rather than intellect," the statement read.

“His images have helped build our general understanding of who we are as a society and as humans, and have inspired generations of photographers despite the changes in the industry and trends,” wrote Magnum president Cristina de Middel.

“He was a tireless generator of icons. The combination of his casual and humoristic approach to the act of photographing, and his obsessive dedication, made him a unique artist that we have lost today with great sadness.”