Mitchell, Jack. (1925–2013)

"Sea Duet - A Ballet for Still Photography" - SIGNED

Original photographic composition by the noted photographer of ballet and the arts, titled "Sea Duet - A Ballet for Still Photography." Stamped, signed and inscribed by Mitchell on the verso in pencil to Paul McMahon, and titled, signed, and dated 1983 at the foot in ink. The sheet consists of thirty small images, each showing two dancers creating a silhouetted shape. Laid down on card to an overall size of 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35.5 cm). Very fine.

"Mr. Mitchell was the official photographer for the American Ballet Theater, and he chronicled the work of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for decades. Posing dancers, encouraging them to leap, to stretch, to point their feet, he “had a way of either moving you into the pose or getting you into the pose and keeping you live while you were in it,” Kevin McKenzie, the artistic director of American Ballet Theater, said in Mr. Highberger’s film, 'My Life Is Black and White.' " (Bruce Weber in the New York Times.)

From the collection of Paul McMahon, a critic, photographer and artist who worked for more than 13 years touring with Marlene Dietrich as the icon’s stage manager, announcer, dresser, secretary and escort, and later spent 25 years as an arts and entertainment reviewer and photographer with Gay Community News, Esplanade, Tommy’s Connection, The Mirror, Bay Windows and other publications. (17856)


Dance
Unsigned Photo/Portrait
Signed Photograph