Over the course of a lifetime full of encounters and assignments, Henri Dauman generated an impressive series of portraits. Each image was an attempt to get as close as possible to what he thought was the true nature of his subject. Whether shooting a legendary figure or a young debutant, he enjoyed creating a figurative biography and hoped to reward the reader/spectator with an image that was more than a mere illustration. Henri Dauman is a portraitist who follows tradition, both painter and psychologist.
He deployed his French nationality as an asset. It gave him privileged access. In the 1960s, New York had a high respect for French culture. Creative individuals were celebrated. They were invited everywhere, and covered with honors. Henri Dauman was their photographer.
Henri Dauman, The Manhattan Darkroom
February 11 to May 21, 2017
Musée Nicéphore Niépce
28 Quai des Messagerie
71100 Chalon-sur-Saône
France
