Walker EvansLuc Sante

Walker Evans (1903-75) is now considered perhaps the finest documentary photographer ever. His images have had considerable influence on other artists, and not only in the field of photography. He is well known for his 1930s work for the Farm Security Administration, documenting the effect of the Great Depression on a section of the rural population. He also took many photographs of shopfronts, billboards and the seemingly inconsequential details of urban life, to which his work ascribed a profound significance.

Photography is the visual medium of the modern world. It pervades our lives and shapes our perceptions. 55 is a new and ongoing series of beautifully produced, pocket-sized books that explore all aspects and styles of photography. They celebrate the world's most important photographers from the spheres of art, photojournalism, science, street photography, fashion photography and travel photography.

Each volume of 128 pages focuses on an individual master's life work and its development. It features 55 of their key works presented chronologically with an accessible introduction and critical commentaries, telling both the photographer's story and the story of the world that shaped their views.

At specially low prices, 55 paperbacks offer an irresistible look at modern life from some of the greatest ever photographers.

Specifications:

  • Format: Paperback
  • Size: 156 × 136 mm (6 1/8 × 5 3/8 in)
  • Pages: 128 pp
  • Illustrations: 55 illustrations
  • ISBN: 9780714840475

Luc Sante is the author of Low Life, Evidence and The Factory of Facts. He is a frequent contributor to the New York Review of Books and a Visiting Professor in the Photography and Writing Departments of Bard College, New York.

'Elegantly designed, beautifully printed ... and sensitively laid out ... the choice of images is irreproachable ... Even if the series were to stop dead right now, it would already merit an honourable mention in publishing history ... the temptation to keep on collecting the whole set will no doubt afflict many.' (Independent)

'Phaidon 55s are handsome, pocket-sized editions with - you guessed it - 55 key works of one of the 20th century's iconic photographers. And because they cost just £4.95, the idea is you can take them - and even leave them - anywhere: on the table in the coffee shop, or poking suggestively out of your corduroy jacket pocket.' (Financial Times)

'The books are aimed beyond the 'photography buff' to a wider audience. Photography fans won't be disappointed, though: each book contains 55 images, so there's space to include lesser-known gems among the classic.' (Independent on Sunday)