Martin Lewis, no, not
that Martin Lewis, was a New York artist, originally from Australia. He had an extraordinary understanding of the play of light and shadow and created amazing night scenes. A photographer's eye. No, a cinematographer's. He seemed to have a love affair with the night or twilight. But he also etched, or painted, marvelous scenes with almost no shadows as well. Just magic.
I learned about Martin Lewis from one of the great brochures I received from
The Old Print Shop.
 |
| Relics, 1928 |
 |
| Subway Steps |
 |
| Great Shadow |
 |
| Derricks at Night |
 |
| Night in New York |
 |
| Shadow Dance |
A book online:
Peeps at Great Cities- New York with illustrations by Martin Lewis
 |
| Haunted |
 |
| Tree, Manhattan |
 |
| Winter Moon |
 |
| Arch Midnight |
 |
| Passing Storm |
 |
| Circus Night |
 |
| Quarter of Nine, Saturday’s Children, 1929 |
 |
| Chance Meeting |
 |
| “Sandy Hook, Connecticut. The mailbox bears the name ‘Landeck,’ referring to Lewis's friend Armin Landeck" |
 |
| The Glow of the City. 1929 |
 |
| Shadow Magic |
 |
| Late Traveler |
 |
| Fifth Avenue Bridge
|
 |
At the Wall, 1949
Stoops in the Snow, 1930 |
 |
| East Side Night, Williamsburg Bridge |
 |
Spring Night, Greenwich Village, 1930
 |
| The Little Penthouse, 1931 |
|
Martin Lewis
ReplyDeleteHas caught it - that is New York in the 30’s and 40’s. I grew up in New York during that period and looking at his work literally transports me back to that time and place that doesn’t exist any more. Martin lets me remember the sounds, smell the smells and hear the sounds of that period.
You're so right Lionel. Martin Lewis caught it. Thanks so much for your comment, it's very appreciated, especially from someone who lived it. Many good wishes to you.
Deletejust found this brilliant artist !!!! I can see how Hopper has been influenced
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this brilliant underrecognized artist!
ReplyDelete