Jean Genet, writer, New York City

Richard Avedon

March 11, 1970 · Gelatin silver print · Photographs

Avedon isolates Jean Genet in a moment of introspection. It had been a hectic week—after slipping across the Canadian border, the French writer-turned-activist was moving between safe houses to lay low. He was working with the Black Panther Party, speaking at colleges to recruit white students to their cause. At left, party minister Elbert Howard exits the frame in a flash of leather. He accompanied Genet to read statements in translation, and Avedon’s unconventional portrait evokes their double act. Though Genet dominates the scene, the Panthers’ influence is palpable—his jacket was a gift from the group, who had revamped his wardrobe to better fit their image. The following day, the men participated in a lecture with members of the Young Lords and the Chicago Seven, two other activist groups photographed by Avedon.

Artist

Richard Avedon

Date

March 11, 1970

Medium

Gelatin silver print

Department

Photographs

Credit line

Gift of the artist, 2002