Alexey Brodovitch

Library Journal

Although the name Alexey Brodovitch may not be familiar to everyone, in the world of graphic arts it speaks volumes. Designer, photographer, and interior designer Brodovitch reigned as art director of Harper's Bazaar from 1934 until 1958. Working with artists such as Man Ray, Richard Avedon, and Henri Cartier-Bresson, he dramatically altered American magazine design. The double-page spread was one of his signature innovations, as was the emphasis on negative space in layouts. This book, with examples of some of his finest work, is the catalog for an exhibition held at the Maison Europ ene de la Photographie in Paris last year. It is also the first significant Brodovitch publication since 1989. The illustrated index, drop cover, and full-page facsimile reproductions make for a very attractive presentation, though the wide-column pages of text are maddening to read. Highly recommended for art and design libraries.--Margarete Gross, Chicago P.L. Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.