Anne W. Brigman

(American, Honolulu Hawaii 1869- 1950 Eagle Rock, California)

Date: 1905

            Anne W. Brigman was born in 1869, she was a painter. In 1902 she found interest in photography. At this time photography wasn’t accepted as an art form, but Anne didn’t agree, she believed photography should be appreciated as paintings were appreciated. She was eventually invited to be a part of photo secession, which was a movement made up of mainly men, that shared her same beliefs.

            The female body and environment were the focus of Anne’s photography, the photos were sublime. There weren’t many women viewed as respected artist, Anne was determined to be different and she did just that. The photo was asymmetrical, the balance was created by the woman and huge diagonal tree trunk. I interpreted the naked women standing alone in Anne’s photo meant, strength, determination and women empowerment. Her photography reminded me of work done in the romantic era. The dark sky and shaded background add more emotion to the photo. A bare woman in the woods willing to face anything coming her way.