Arthur Rothstein (1915-1985) is an influential American photographer recognized for his profound contributions to visual storytelling. His artistic journey unfolded against the backdrop of the 20th century. His images resonated with authenticity, capturing the spirit of the times. His lens explored topics ranging from social issues to the cultural landscape, always with an acute awareness of the human experience. His photographs serve as a timeless testament to the power of visual storytelling in preserving and understanding human existence. Rothenstein captured the essence of American life through the camera, utilizing his keen eye for composition and narrative.
Born in New York City in 1915, Rothstein began his photography career while attending Columbia University, where he honed his craft under the mentorship of Roy Stryker at the Farm Security Administration (FSA). This association became a pivotal chapter in his career, providing a platform to chronicle the diverse facets of American society. In the 1950's Rothstein continued his photographic explorations, showcasing the evolving dynamics of American life. He embraced the challenges of changing photographic times, adapting his craft to the shifting landscape of visual storytelling. He also served as the director of photography at Look magazine until its end in 1971. During this time, he joined the team at Parade magazine and founded the American Society of Magazine Photographers. He was also the author of several books about his photojournalistic endeavors and invented the X-O-Graph printing process.
His work is housed in many international permanent collections. It has been featured in various permanent exhibitions: the International Museum of Photography at George Eastman House, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Museum of Modern Art.
