Customer Reviews

Through Another Lens: My Years With Edward Weston

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Charis Wilson reveals some sides of Edward Weston not previously published, and corrects some missimpressions that have been published. She is an excellent writer. Readers should recall that this book is a rememberance, not a spicy revelation; with that in mind, they should enjoy it.

This biography is an expansive treatment of the brief insight offered by Charis Wilson in her remembrance in "Edward Weston Nudes" (an Aperture monograph). It describes the artistic partnership between one of the greatest photographers in history and his muse/model/wife/inspiration - also one of the greatest in history.

As both an amateur photographer and writer, I have learned much from both about making images and writing stories. There are many published books on Weston's photography; this book has everything that is missing - the half of the story that has been largely untold for half a century.

Charis (Kar-is) Wilson was long the companion and lover of Edward Weston. She met him at an early age (19 or 20) when he was twice her age. She proved not only a love force in his life, but she wrote much of his captions for his photographs. She tells her story in a frank and honest manner with some bit of humor. We really find out who she was and what she thought about being with one of the world's greatest photographers at the time. The book reveals new information about Edward at the same time we are finding out about Charis. A very good read which flows easily. Makes everyone want to drop life's stress, grab camera and head for Pt. Lobos and the art community of Carmel, CA

I went to a Edward Weston review in Washington D.C. many years ago. I saw a print of his picture of Charis sitting in front of the rock wall taken back in 1937 (Charis, Lake Ediza); I had to read this book. A first hand memoir of their time together written by Miss Wilson herself, I had to read it. I found the book a great read and it provided a ton of insight into the pictures I enjoyed so much ... when and where they were taken, what was going on in Edward and Charis' life at the time and so on. Like most May - December relationships, it seemed bound to end badly, but the truth is they had 10 wonderful, productive years together and, in my mind, that is just fine. If you enjoy the photography of Weston, Ansel Adams and Imogen Cunningham, you need to read this book. I promise you will enjoy it. I would have given it a fifth star if there were a few more of Weston's photos, although many are reproduced in the book. Get it and enjoy it.

Weston is my FAVORITE photographer of all times. I've read the daybooks (which are excellent) and own many Weston Books. While I'll not pretend Charis Wilson is a great writer (OK...it was "Co Written" by her)the book is a different prespective on a great photographer. Skip the "life and times of Charis" sections and you'll be privey to a personal side of Weston not often revealed in other writings.