What Becomes a Legend Most

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This biography offers an in-depth look at Richard Avedon, a pivotal photographer of the twentieth century, through the lens of photography critic Philip Gefter. Avedon's acclaimed portraits and work for Harper's Bazaar and Vogue revolutionized women's fashion and cultural ideals, establishing a defining aesthetic of the era. Despite his ambition to gain recognition in the art world, he was often dismissed as merely a "celebrity photographer." Gefter's narrative explores Avedon’s journey, highlighting his personal and professional struggles, insecurities, and relentless pursuit of artistic validation. The biography begins with Avedon’s formative years in New York, shaped by cultural prejudices, and details his efforts to gain respect in a medium that sought legitimacy. The influence of the 1950s and 1960s on his work is examined, alongside his friendships with notable figures like Leonard Bernstein and Truman Capote, who were integral to American cultural life. Avedon's breakthrough came in the late 1970s when his fashion work was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, leading to widespread recognition. With a blend of glamour, artistic ambition, and personal anecdotes, this biography serves as a tribute to Avedon's significant impact on photography and fashion, solidifying his legacy as a transformative artist.