The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is set to present Life Dances On: Robert Frank in Dialogue, a groundbreaking solo exhibition celebrating the artist’s legacy. Running from September 15th, 2024, to January 11th, 2025, this exhibition coincides with the centennial of Frank’s birth and offers fresh insights into his prolific career spanning six decades after the release of his influential photobook, The Americans. It will showcase over 200 works, including photographs, films, and archival materials, many of which have never been displayed before.
The exhibition emphasizes Frank’s relentless experimentation across various mediums and his connections with fellow artists and communities. It draws its title from Frank’s poignant 1980 film, which reflects on the people who shaped his artistic vision. One significant series, 10th Street Painters, features portraits of his artist friends, illustrating his dual role as both participant and chronicler of the vibrant art scene.
Frank’s work captures the essence of his collaborations, highlighting the dialogue between abstraction and figuration that defined his contemporaries. The exhibition not only explores Frank’s relationships within the New York art community but also includes his broader interactions with influential figures beyond the city. With its rich collection and diverse themes, Life Dances On promises to offer a compelling exploration of Robert Frank’s enduring impact on art and culture.
Andrea, 1975. Five gelatin silver prints and ink on paper, 10 15/16 × 13 7/8″ (27.8 × 35.2 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, NY. Gift of the June Leaf and Robert Frank Foundation in honor of Clément Chéroux and Lucy Gallun
Courtesy of THE JUNE LEAF and ROBERT FRANK FOUNDATION
James Baldwin, c. 1963, Gelatin silver print, 13 15/16 × 9 13/16″ (35.4 × 24.9 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Gift of the artist
Courtesy of THE JUNE LEAF and ROBERT FRANK FOUNDATION
Cocksucker Blues, 1972. Gelatin silver print, 19 7/8 × 15 7/8″ (50.5 × 40.3 cm). The June Leaf and Robert Frank Foundation
Courtesy of THE JUNE LEAF and ROBERT FRANK FOUNDATION
Mabou Winter Footage. 1977. Gelatin silver print, 23 11/16 × 14 3/4″ (60.1 × 37.5 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired by exchange with the artist
Courtesy of THE JUNE LEAF and ROBERT FRANK FOUNDATION
Pablo’s Bottle at Bleecker Street, New York City. 1973. Gelatin silver print, 19 13/16 × 15 7/8″ (50.3 × 40.3 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Promised gift of Michael Jesselson
Courtesy of THE JUNE LEAF and ROBERT FRANK FOUNDATION
Photography by JONATHAN DORADO, courtesy of THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, New York
Photography by JONATHAN DORADO, courtesy of THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, New York
Photography by JONATHAN DORADO, courtesy of THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, New York
Photography by JONATHAN DORADO, courtesy of THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, New York
