Judy Glickman Lauder's Photography Collection to Tour US Museums
A remarkable collection of photographic artworks, comprising over a hundred pieces by influential artists such as Diane Arbus, Nan Goldin, and Edward Steichen, is scheduled for a comprehensive tour across numerous American museums. This curated display, known as 'Presence: The Photography Collection of Judy Glickman Lauder,' is organized by the American Federation of Arts (AFA) and features contributions from more than fifty distinguished photographers. It offers a profound journey through various photographic styles and eras, highlighting the medium's capacity to document and interpret human existence.
The 'Presence' exhibition aims to captivate audiences with its diverse representation of photographic genres, ranging from the intricate details of Pictorialism to the raw honesty of social documentary, the imaginative landscapes of Surrealism, and the candid spontaneity of street photography. Following its initial presentation at the Southampton Arts Center in New York, the collection will embark on its national journey, making these iconic works accessible to a broad public. Each photograph within the exhibition serves as a window into different aspects of the human condition, inviting viewers to engage with varied narratives and perspectives.
Pauline Forlenza, the Director and CEO of the American Federation of Arts, expressed her enthusiasm for the touring exhibition. She noted that the collection brings together some of the most commanding voices from 20th-century photography, offering a potent reflection on interpersonal understanding. Forlenza emphasized the AFA's dedication to making art widely available and anticipated that visitors would gain a deeper appreciation for photography's unique ability to forge connections across temporal and geographical boundaries.
Judy Glickman Lauder, the visionary behind this collection, is celebrated internationally for her significant contributions as a photographer, philanthropist, and author. Her early life profoundly influenced her photographic journey; she was often photographed by her father, Irving Bennett Ellis, an experience that led to her feature in the memorable 1960s 'Turn Around' commercial for Kodak. This early exposure ignited a lifelong devotion to photography, shaping her discerning eye and profound understanding of the art form.
Glickman Lauder conveyed her hope that the emotional weight and enduring impact of these images would deeply resonate with visitors. She articulated her belief that photography not only links us to historical moments but also underscores our role in an unfolding narrative. For her, photography possesses an unparalleled power to articulate authentic and empathetic stories about the human experience. She lauded the collaborative effort with the American Federation of Arts, attributing its success to a shared commitment to accessibility, connection, and meaningful dialogue in the arts.
The 'Presence: The Photography Collection of Judy Glickman Lauder' exhibit is scheduled to visit several prominent institutions. After its run at the Southampton Arts Center from July 25 to September 27, it will move to the Sarasota Art Museum (October 18, 2026–April 4, 2027), followed by the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston (May 28–August 29, 2027), and finally conclude its tour at the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami (September 30, 2027–February 26, 2028).
This extensive collection, curated by Judy Glickman Lauder, presents an encompassing survey of photographic artistry from the 20th century. Showcasing the works of more than 50 photographers, the exhibition traverses various artistic movements and thematic explorations, offering a profound commentary on the shared human journey. The tour across major U.S. museums underscores the collection's cultural significance and its potential to inspire and connect audiences through the universal language of photography.