Anne Wilkes Tucker

This book surprised me with its power. The photographs are exceptional, but the text and interview with Chen Changfen about the history of the wall and his approach to the photographs should be considered art by themselves. This quickly became one of my favorite books of the year.

the hardcover version of this exhibit catalogue is breathtaking ... came through the national gallery of art october 1999 through january 2000... these photos from mid 20th century paris capture night life indoors (a prostitute washing up, for example, or a cafe scene) and outdoors on the streets and alleys ... and daylife .. a familiar and often replicated image of a couple kissing on a carnival ride, the steps of montmarte, cobble stones, calm. these images more than other urban images show more these days remind me of the chicago snaps of art shay -- the people doing what they do .. uncostumed, unfussed, unadorned ... unmade up. in all our simplicity and basic looks and actions. our humanity captured. show less

An elegant book. The photographs and the reproduction are both commendable. There is more impact in the larger originals as exhibited, as there should have been, but this is a book to enjoy over time.

Reviewed for Arts of Asia magazine