The Black Trilogy Paperback – January 1, 2018

Ralph Gibson's first three books of photos (originally self published by Gibson's Lustrum Press) are collectively known as the "Black Trilogy". Here they are reprinted in full and available at a decent price.As examples of surrealist photography, you would be hard pressed to find better examples. Gibson's influences on the art of photography began at this point and spread throughout the medium. Today Gibson is one of the elder statesmen of the art.To make a personal point, Gibson's work was something of an epiphany to me when I first saw it in the early 1970's. I didn't really understand what the photographs were saying but I liked the way they said it. Over time, I've come to the conclusion that it's unnecessary to understand the meaning of everything. You just have to learn to appreciate that there is a mean there somewhere. If you're the least bit interested in surrealism, Ralph Gibson's work or photography in general, you really should get this book.

Great to see these three iconic works in the same place, and for a reasonable price. Four stars rather than five because the plates are higher contrast than in the original editions, which might sound like a quibble: but Gibson was the most meticulous printer since Gene Smith, and his deliberation is worthy of respect.This edition is fine for general enjoyment- but photo historians and serious analog photographic printers will want to refer to the originals.

Great photos

Très belle présentation du travail de Leiter

Amazing works