【Book Description】
Magnum: Georgia Diaries is a powerful documentary photography collection created by ten renowned photographers from Magnum Photos, capturing the complex and evolving identity of the Republic of Georgia—a nation that bridges Europe and Asia with a cultural heritage dating back to the 7th century BC. Throughout the 20th century, Georgia endured a series of political upheavals, including its forced incorporation into the Soviet Union in 1922, followed by its declaration of independence in 1991, which was soon marred by civil war and economic collapse. Despite lingering tensions with Russia, Georgia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and renewal over the past decade, regaining a place on the global stage.
In the spring of 2009, the ten participating Magnum photographers—Antoine d'Agata, Jonas Bendiksen, Thomas Dworzak, Martine Franck, Alex Majoli, Gueorgui Pinkhassov, Martin Parr, Paolo Pellegrin, Mark Power, and Alec Soth—embarked on separate journeys across Georgia, each exploring their own theme and perspective. Alec Soth, for instance, set out to find “the most beautiful woman in Georgia,” offering a uniquely personal lens through which to view the country. Each photographer was deeply moved by the warmth, strength, and authenticity of the Georgian people, a sentiment that resonates vividly through their images and accompanying journal-style writings included in the book.
Thoughtfully designed and richly layered, the book features a fold-out map marking the individual travel routes of each photographer. It also includes a dedicated section showcasing Magnum’s historic work in Georgia over the past 60 years—featuring legendary images by founders Robert Capa, who traveled there in 1948 with writer John Steinbeck, and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
An insightful introduction by New Yorker contributor and Georgia expert Wendell Steavenson provides critical context through historical, cultural, and geopolitical reflections. With its compelling blend of storytelling, photography, and personal narrative, Magnum: Georgia Diaries is not only a stunning visual journey but also an invaluable cultural record, offering readers a rare glimpse into a nation undergoing transformation.
【Details】
Authors: Magnum Photos (Author), Wendell Steavenson (Author)
Publisher: Chris Boot
Year: 2009
Dimensions: 29 × 25 cm
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 252 pages