Customer Reviews

Patti Smith: American Artist

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

These photos of Patti Smith have been called some of the most beautiful portraits ever taken of her. The book chronicles the early evolution of the "high priestess of punk" in pictures and story by her friend and photgrapher, Frank Stefanko. As an "American Artist", Patti's story follows an amazingly talented and multifaceted performer who moves from a small town in Jersey to the the Big Apple, where she hones her talents and finds her voice. She has become an icon for other female artists to emulate.

I loved this book - a friend called and told me about it because he knew it was right up my alley, and I ran out and bought it right away! The photos are gorgeous, and it is very interesting to read the narrative of someone who knew her in her college days (a period of her life of which little is heretofore known) and obviously recognised her beauty immediately. I especially love the plentiful midriff shots, since she has the cutest tummy I've ever seen :)

'Large format (12 ½ inches tall x 9 wide) black and white photographs. Mostly portraits, some
stage shots and a few of the band. Stefanko has known Ms. Smith since they were youngsters and has made
photographing her a life-long vocation. This collection covers 1970-1980. Nearly all are posed. Some whimsical, others pensive, each presents a unique aspect of a multi-faceted woman and the band. The short essays include some funny anecdotes and insight into Stefanko & Smith's friendship. Highly recommend. Would make a great gift. Horses

I am looking for a history of Patti Smith. This book was good, but I did not realize it was from a photographers point of view. It is very difficult to find out how she came to be in written form. The photo's are good, but repetitive. It is not one I will keep in my collection.