Customer Reviews

A Kind of Rapture

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This superb book is nearly uncategorizable. The portraits contained in this volume, described as "color pictures of everyday people" taken with "a simple 35-mm camera, amateur film, no tripod, and no special lighting" are unlike any other photographs ever published. On a technical level, Robert Bergman's work equals the best of any of photographer now working (including any of a number of celebrity lensmen) while his painterly use of color, texture, and composition is unrivaled. This in itself would be enough for most photographers: in sensual terms there's much to startle and delight the eye. But for Bergman, the revelation of the inner life of the subject reigns supreme, and his masterly technique is entirely in the service of his manifest sympathy for each person whom he presents to us. It's here that these images depart so markedly from what we are used to seeing in a photograph of a person--each individual is revealed with the most penetrating gaze, but with such tenderness of spirit as to leave his or her human dignity unsullied. It's not photography, it's art. As Toni Morrison concludes in her Introduction, "Occasionally there arises an event or moment that one knows immediately will forever mark a place in the history of artistic endeavor. Robert Bergman's portraits represent such a moment, such an event."

I am much more of a devotee of black and white images than color - especially portrait photography. But, this incredible display of artistry sweeps me off my feet! The artistic depth and personal sensitivity displayed through this work makes me want to know more and see more from the master photographer who created it. You won't be disappointed with this purchase!

I'll say it again -- This is an absolutely stunning book! From Toni Morrison's gracefully written and thought-provoking foreward, through the 50 portraits themselves and onto Meyer Schapiro's comments, this book is not only moving, but is one which calls you back again and again. And each time you go back to it, you come away with new riches. I've been acquainted with Bergman's work for over 20 years but even so was unprepared for the impact this collection has. This is not an "inspirational" book according to the connotation the word currently seems to carry - "8 to 80, anyone can do it, feel better afterwards." But it brings a deeper level of inspiration, a way to look at something universal expressed in a way that does not deny the "fear and trembling" we feel in the face of universal truth, does not pander to us, but at the same time, through great kindness, gives us the eyes to see it and be able to examine some of its aspects more closely. As for the technical aspects of Mr. Bergman's photography and the production values of the book itself -- again, stunning! Hold the book, open it and begin the walk through the gallery -- it is a very physical experience -- much more akin to being in a exhibit than leafing through a book. If you can only buy one book this year, buy this one!

I don't encounter color photography very often that literally knocks me off my feet. But,this is a notable exception. The portraits in this book are glorious - a tribute to the profound sensitivity of the photographer who took them. This book is a must for any serious collection.

Let me say that being able to hold this treasure in my hands and to feel the souls of both the artist and those within, provides an experience I never thought I would have. This book is a road map to the soul of all of us and it is my wish for everyone who is fortunate enough to see it that the door to the inner self that shines from Bergman's work is opened to them. It is a rich feeling indeed to be able to open the book at any point and see the face and love of God. Bergman is blessed with a vision that has brought this to Everyman. A KIND OF RAPTURE is a great and universal gift.

Ten years ago this month A KIND OF RAPTURE was published. Toni Morrison boldly states in the Introduction that this collection of photographs by Robert Bergman will "forever mark a place in the history of artistic endeavor." You might accept this claim simply as generous enthusiasm--until this astonishing gallery of portraits unfolds before your eyes. Not since the publication of Robert Frank's THE AMERICANS (1958, French edition) has any photographic book searched the soul of America with such unexpected and artistically profound results. Like Robert Frank, Robert Bergman set out by car, traveling across America, capturing unplanned encounters with a simple 35mm camera. Bergman's book, A KIND OF RAPTURE, was published in 1998. Exactly four decades subsequent to THE AMERICANS, the world was given a photobook comparable in vision and originality to Robert Frank's landmark book. Open A KIND OF RAPTURE and you will conclude it was well worth the wait.

These are images that go beyond being visually powerful, they also have a profound spiritual, emotional and intellectual meaning. Toni Morrison's provocative meditation, "The Fisherwoman", is an integral part of this great work of art and provides a perfect entree into a gallery of sacred beauty.

Find it, buy it. If you're a serious photographer, it cannot be not in your library. It should be on your shelf along with "The Americans" of Robert Frank and other photographers' photographers' opus. Toni Morrison's introduction essay prepares the reader perfectly for what's to come.

An exploitative excursion through streets inhabited by the down and out, with possible appeal likely limited to social voyeurs seeking a glimpse into the sorrow of others. If the latter is not your thing, avoid this product, with indulgence in its contents at the risk of an onset of queasiness.