Contemporary Black and White Photography
CONTEMPORARY STYLE
Used to refer to a time rather than an aesthetic, Contemporary art generally describes pieces created after 1970 or being made by living artists anywhere in the world. This immediacy means it encompasses art responding to the present moment through diverse subjects, media and themes. Contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, performance, digital art, video and more frequently includes work that is attempting to reshape current ideas about what art can be, from Felix Gonzalez-Torres’s use of candy to memorialize a lover he lost to AIDS-related complications to Jenny Holzer’s ongoing “Truisms,” a Conceptual series that sees provocative messages printed on billboards, T-shirts, benches and other public places that exist outside of formal exhibitions and the conventional “white cube” of galleries.
Contemporary art has been pushing the boundaries of creative expression for years. Its disruption of the traditional concepts of art are often aiming to engage viewers in complex questions about identity, society and culture. In the latter part of the 20th century, contemporary movements included Land art, in which artists like Robert Smithson and Michael Heizer create large-scale, site-specific sculptures, installations and other works in soil and bodies of water; Sound art, with artists such as Christian Marclay and Susan Philipsz centering art on sonic experiences; and New Media art, in which mass media and digital culture inform the work of artists such as Nam June Paik and Rafaël Rozendaal.
The first decades of the 21st century have seen the growth of Contemporary African art, the revival of figurative painting, the emergence of street art and the rise of NFTs, unique digital artworks that are powered by blockchain technology.
Major Contemporary artists practicing now include Ai Weiwei, Cecily Brown, David Hockney, Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, Takashi Murakami and Kara Walker.
Find a collection of Contemporary prints, photography, paintings, sculptures and other art on 1stDibs.
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Style: Contemporary
Artist: Art Shay
Hugh Hefner in His Bedroom Office, Chicago 1961, Black and White Photography
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
"Nelson Algren's Chicago: Photographs by Art Shay", page 34. Hugh Hefner liked Algren and vice versa. After Hefner purchased several of his short stori...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Brooklyn, Illinois, Twins, 1952 - For Ebony Magazine in Lovejoy AKA Brooklyn, IL
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay photographed the community of Brooklyn, IL for Ebony Magazine, 1952. These photographs are the result of that experience. Brooklyn (popularly known as Lovejoy), is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. Located two miles north of East St. Louis, Illinois and three miles northeast of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, it is the oldest town incorporated by African Americans in the United States. It was founded by freed and fugitive slaves from St. Louis, led by "Mother" Priscilla Baltimore in the period of 1829 to 1839. Its motto is "Founded by Chance, Sustained by Courage". This photograph is framed.
Art Shay
Brooklyn Twins, 1952
silver gelatin print
14h x 11w in
35.56h x 27.94w cm
ASY15054
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.” Roger Ebert “[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.” Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.” William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.” Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.” Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.” Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.” Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?” Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.” Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.” Arthur Siegel, photographer; IIT Institute of Design President
“I have one of Art Shay’s pictures over my desk. It reminds me every morning of my Chicago roots. Arts photos, like me, have the Chicago accent, which may be to say he’s telling you the truth. I think it takes a realist to see the humor in things. I know it takes a realist to see the depths of tragedy. Art’s work is so real it feels like a Madison Street guy tapping me on the forearm.” David Mamet
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
James Baldwin Standing, Deerfield, IL 1961, Deerfield Integration Rally
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
"In 1961 Art Shay encounted the African American writer and itellectual James Baldwin at a neighbor's home in Deerfield, Illinois. Baldwin was visiting the lily-white suburb because it had recently drawn international attention for its stand against residential racial integration. He attended a house partyon behalf of the American Freedom of Residence Fund, a national oranization of liberal integrationists that supported the beleagured local group, the Deerfield Citizens for Human Rights. Shay captured Baldwin hiding away in the kitchen. As he looks back at the camera, Baldwin seems to ponder the absurdity of his environment in Deerfield, where residents seemed so scared of having a dark-skinned neighbor like him." {Experpt from Troublemakers: Chicago Freedom Struggles Through the Lens of Art Shay by Erik S. Gellman}
Art Shay
James Baldwin, 1961
archival pigment print
19h x 13w in
48.26h x 33.02w cm
Framed:
21.75h x 16.50w x 1.25d in
55.24h x 41.91w x 3.17d cm
ASY365
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart...
Category
2010s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Twins, Lovejoy AKA Brooklyn, Illinois, for Ebony Magazine, 1952, Silver Gelatin
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay photographed the community of Brooklyn, IL for Ebony Magazine, 1952. These photographs are the result of that experience. Brooklyn (popularly known as Lovejoy), is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. Located two miles north of East St. Louis, Illinois and three miles...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Woman in Sheer Dress, Silver Gelatin Black & White Photograph by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
At what appears to be a costume party, this beautiful woman, draped in a sheer tunic, must have been the center of attention. Dressed as Aphrodite, she clearly commands those around her. With his camera as his constant companion, Shay was able to capture moments of everyday life and make them extraordinary. This artwork is currently unframed. Contact gallery for framing options.
Art Shay
Woman in Sheer Dress
silver gelatin print
20h x 16w in
50.80h x 40.64w cm
7ED.1.20.12005
ASY12005
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel, photographer; IIT Institute of Design President
“I have one of Art Shay’s pictures over my desk. It reminds me every morning of my Chicago roots. Arts photos, like me, have the Chicago accent, which may be to say he’s telling you the truth. I think it takes a realist to see the humor in things. I know it takes a realist to see the depths of tragedy. Art’s work is so real it feels like a Madison Street guy tapping me on the forearm.”
David Mamet
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Marlon Brando, Libertyville, Illinois, 1950 - Silver Gelatin Print
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
On assignment for Life Magazine in 1950, Art Shay photographed Marlon Brando at his family farm in Libertyville, Illinois, just north of Chicago. Looking straight into Art's lens, Brando is innocent of the fame that is about to become his world. He went on to a career spanning sixty years including winning two Oscars for Best Actor. This photograph is unframed. Contact the gallery for framing options.
Art Shay
Brando Portrait, 1950
silver gelatin print
20h x 16w in
50.80h x 40.64w cm
ASY12088
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel, photographer; IIT Institute of Design President
“I have one of Art Shay’s pictures over my desk. It reminds me every morning of my Chicago roots. Arts photos, like me, have the Chicago accent, which may be to say he’s telling you the truth. I think it takes a realist to see the humor in things. I know it takes a realist to see the depths of tragedy. Art’s work is so real it feels like a Madison Street guy tapping me on the forearm.”
David Mamet
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Maxwell Street Dog, Black & White Street Photography, Chicago, 1953 by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay's love of Street Photography is evident is this 1953 photograph entitled "Maxwell Street Dog". A Chicago tradition running for about 100 years, the Maxwell Street Market wa...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Girls Girls Girls, State St. Strip Joint Near Death, Chicago, 1966
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This was seemingly always a seedy joint. Opened in 1906 for the Jones, Linick & Schaefer circuit as the U.S. Music Hall, it was shut down briefly in 1916 for indecency, as it was always primarily a burlesque house. In 1922 an abandoned baby was found there; in 1932 there was a rapist and killer caught there; over the years gambling was broken up, mob links were found, and it was shut down repeatedly.
By 1934 it had become the State-Harrison Theatre. By the mid-1940’s, it had gone burlesque before the city shut it down at the end of 1954 for lewd conduct. By 1967 it was called the Rialto Theatre, probably for the associations people had with the old Rialto Theatre a couple blocks north, when it was shut down again.
It reopened in 1971. In November 1974 it closed briefly after being victim of a series of coordinated bombings of Chicago porn houses - the Rialto Theatre, Follies Theatre, Newberry Theatre, and Bijou Theatre were victims. It soon reopened, but was shut down for good a few months later in 1975 as part of a code crackdown that shut a number of theatres.
Art Shay
State Street Strip Joint Near Death, 1966
archival pigment print, unnumbered edition
16h x 20w in
40.64h x 50.80w cm
ASY169
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, Las Vegas, 1961, The Rat Pack
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Two of the famed Rat Pack are shown here is this playful photograph by Art Shay. Dean Martin carries Frank Sinatra across the stage while the other members enjoy the antics in this ...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Vegas, Hotel Signs, Homage to Mondrian, Color Street Photography by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay's love of Street Photography is evident is this photograph simply titled "Vegas". A plethora of restaurant and hotel signs pay homage to Mondrian. These colorful signs cov...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Blues Guitarist, Buddy Guy, 1966, Playing Guitar, Framed Photograph by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, this black and white photograph of Buddy Guy was taken by Art Shay in 1966. In 2016, Buddy Guy chose this photo for his 80th birthday celebration poster. It is signed on the front of the image. It is matted in a heavy mat and framed in a black metal frame. It measures 25.5h x 19.5w inches.
Art Shay
Buddy Guy, 1966
archival pigment print
19h x 13w in
48.26h x 33.02w cm
ASY177
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Two Leopards Spotted, Chicago 1974, Brookfield Zoo, Signed and Framed.
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Street photography was a passion of Art's and it shows in this delightful shot taken at Brookfield Zoo in 1974. The photograph is signed on the bottom right hand corner. It is matted with a heavy white mat and framed in a simple black metal frame.
Art Shay
Two Leopards...
Category
1970s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Killers For Hire, JFK, South Dakota 1960, Black and White Photograph by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This photograph features John F Kennedy sitting on the back of a convertible with US Representative George McGovern in what at first glance appears to be a parade route in South Dako...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Mafia Boss Tony "Big Tuna" Accardo in Front of Big Lion, Chicago 1959
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Jessica Lange at her Minnesota Cottage, 1976, Black and White Photograph, Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
A vibrant young Jessica Lang shows off her Scottie in this relaxed portrait of the rising star at her cottage retreat in Minnesota in 1976.
Art Shay
Jessica Lange...
Category
1970s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Titter, Scantily Clad Woman Viewing Titter Magazine, 1950 Vintage Photograph
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.” Roger Ebert “[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Blues Great Howlin' Wolf, Chicago 1966, Framed Black and White Photo by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Howlin' Wolf was one of blues music's all-time greats, known for his electric guitar-based style. Photographed here in 1966 by Art Shay, this black and white image is signed on the bottom right corner. It is matted and framed, measuring 27.5h x 21.5w inches.
Art Shay
Howlin' Wolf, 1966
silver gelatin print
20h x 16w in
50.80h x 40.64w cm
ASY199
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Marlon Brando Kissing Dog, Libertyville, IL 1950 - Large Format Black & White
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This is a large scale black and white photo of Marlon Brando as a young man at his family farm with his dog. In 1951 Life Magazine asked Art Shay to photograph Marlon Brando at his family home in Libertyville, IL. This is one of the photos from that shoot. In 2000, Art Shay published Album for an Age: Unconventional Words and Pictures from the Twentieth Century. This artwork is matted and framed.
Art Shay
Marlon Brando Kissing Dog...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Observant Father, 1949, Chicago, Vintage Silver Gelatin Print
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Street photography was Art's true passion. He never went anywhere without his camera so he could capture moments like this one - a priest on a Chicago street "observing" one of his parishioners. Art saw humor in everyday life catching moments that the casual observer probably would have missed.
Art Shay
Observant Father, 1949
vintage silver gelatin print...
Category
1940s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Lombardi Huddle, Green Bay Packer Coach Vince Lombardi 1966 by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Famed Green Bay Packer coach Vince Lombardi photographed at Lambeau Field in 1966 by Art Shay. The angle of this shot is particularly interesting. Art was definitely up close and personal with the coach and players that day! This photograph is not framed. Please contact the gallery for framing options.
Art Shay
Lombardi Huddle, 1966
silver gelatin print, printed later
20h x 16w in
50.80h x 40.64w cm
ASY15080
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Boxing Great, Rocky Graciano in Locker Room After Fight, 1948
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Rocky Graziano was an American professional boxer who held the World Middleweight title. Graziano is considered one of the greatest knockout artists in boxing history, often displayi...
Category
1940s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Car Reflection, 1958, Black and White Photograph Appeared in LIFE Magazine
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay carried his camera with him where ever he went. He captured everyday moments and some not so everyday like this car. It's reflection in a shop window gives the appearance ...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Building of the St. Louis Gateway Arch, 1963, Silver Gelatin Print
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Standing 630 feet above the Mississippi River is St. Louis’ most iconic landmark: the Gateway Arch. The tallest national monument in America, it is a lege...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Deerfield Protestors, 1963, Activists at Rally at Dusk, Silver Gelatin Print
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Residents of Deerfield, IL learned a housing developer planned to sell homes in the village to black and white buyers. Many residents opposed integration and sought reasons to halt the development. A smaller group, the Deerfield Citizens for Human Rights, formed in support of the development. In the weeks that followed, Deerfield residents passed a park referendum to condemn the developer’s land. The crisis in Deerfield became a national story, attracting the attention of Martin Luther King Jr., James Baldwin, and Eleanor Roosevelt. The activists rallied and sang freedom songs at dusk on May 18, 1963 captured here by Art. After years of demonstrations and legal battles, the land became parks that stand today. This artwork is not framed. Please contact the gallery for framing information.
Art Shay
Deerfield Rally, 1963
silver gelatin print
16h x 20w in
40.64h x 50.80w cm
ASY15079
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.” Roger Ebert “[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.” Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors “I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.” William Friedkin, Director of French Connection “Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.” Studs Terkel “Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.” Hugh Hefner “Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.” Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist “Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.” Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast “Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?” Russell Banks, Novelist “The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.” Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris “Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.” Arthur Siegel, photographer; IIT Institute of Design President “I have one of Art Shay’s pictures over my desk. It reminds me every morning of my Chicago roots. Arts photos, like me, have the Chicago accent, which may be to say he’s telling you the truth. I think it takes a realist to see the humor in things. I know it takes a realist to see the depths of tragedy. Art’s work is so real it feels like a Madison Street guy tapping me on the forearm.” David Mamet
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Fallen Starr, 1966, Vince Lombardi Bawling Out Bart Starr, Green Bay Packers
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay
Fallen Starr, 1966
archival pigment print
17h x 22w in
43.18h x 55.88w cm
ASY234
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Smiling Ray Kroc, 1965, McDonald's First Franchise in Des Plaines, IL, Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Ten years after the first franchised McDonald's was opened in Des Plaines, Illinois, Ray Kroc is shown here in 1965, enjoying a burger in front of that same restaurant. Art Shay cap...
Category
1960s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Seurat's A La Grande Jatte with Marcel Marceau, Chicago, 1958
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This 1958 photograph by Art Shay shows Marcel Marceau in front of George Seurat's famed painting "Sunday Afternoon" at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Art Shay
A La Grande Jatte, 1958...
Category
1970s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Green Bay Packer Bart Starr vs Detroit Lions Roger Brown, 1962 (vintage)
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This vintage silver gelatin print from Art Shay shows a football game between the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Lions. Famed GB quarterback No. ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Caitlyn Bruce Jenner, Montreal Olympics, 1976, Black and White Photograph Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This iconic photo of Bruce Jenner (aka Caitlyn Jenner) is at the moment of his decathlon win at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. The photographer, Art Shay, s...
Category
1970s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
The Man With the Golden Arm, 1949, Nelson Algren as the Dealer, Silver Gelatin
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
In the novel "The Man with the Golden Arm" by Nelson Algren, the main character is a card shark. Here Art has taken a twist on that title by showing Algren as the dealer in one of Art's most famous shots. This work is not framed. Contact the gallery for framing options.
Art Shay
The Man with the Golden Arm, 1949
silver gelatin print
16h x 20w in
40.64h x 50.80w cm
ASY15107
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.”
Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.”
William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.”
Studs Terkel
“Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.”
Hugh Hefner
“Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.”
Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.”
Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?”
Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.”
Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.”
Arthur Siegel...
Category
1940s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Leaf
Lovejoy AKA Brooklyn, Illinois, Sisters for Ebony Magazine, 1952, by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay
Brooklyn: Sisters, 1952
silver gelatin print
24.25 x 20.25 framed
ASY103
Art Shay photographed the community of Brooklyn, IL for Ebony Magazine, 1952. These photographs are the result of that experience.
Brooklyn (popularly known as Lovejoy), is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. Located two miles north of East St. Louis, Illinois and three miles northeast of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, it is the oldest town incorporated by African Americans in the United States. It was founded by freed and fugitive slaves from St. Louis, led by "Mother" Priscilla Baltimore in the period of 1829 to 1839. Its motto is "Founded by Chance, Sustained by Courage".
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.” Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20th century.” Ellen & Richard Sandor, Renowned photo collectors
“I’ve admired Art Shay’s work for almost forty years, and he keeps getting better. He can do anything with a camera, but what he mostly does is capture real moments and transform them into visual poetry. His work continues to be an inspiration to me.” William Friedkin, Director of French Connection
“Art Shay is one of our finest photographers. His work over the past fifty years has artfully captured the beauty, humor, and pathos of America.” Studs Terkel “Art Shay is one of the best photojournalists I know. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early 1950s - before the launch of playboy magazine.” Hugh Hefner
Algren, Terkel, Royko, they gave us a voice. Art Shay gave us a face.” Tony Fitzpatrick, Chicago Artist
“Art Shay is America’s Cartier-Bresson.” Thomas Dyja, author of The Third Coast
“Chicago’s Art Shay in many ways is to American photography what Nelson Algren was to American writing: that rare and absolutely necessary citizen who’s blessed with a cold eye, a clear head, and a warm heart. What is it about Chicago that keeps giving us men like this?” Russell Banks, Novelist
“The best images of Simone de Beauvoir and her times have been passed down to us by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gisele Freund, Robert Doisneau, Georges Brassai, and in America, the Chicago-based Art Shay, all world-class photographers.” Christophe Loviny, Art Editor, Paris
“Art Shay is the best photo-journalist Chicago ever produced.” Arthur Siegel...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
A Farm Grandma Waiting for Kids, 1951
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Lovejoy AKA Brooklyn, Illinois, Brothers, for Ebony Magazine, 1952 by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay
Brooklyn: Brothers, 1952
silver gelatin print
24.25 x 20.25 framed
ASY104
Art Shay photographed the community of Brooklyn, IL for Ebony Magazine, 1952. These photographs a...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Kid Boxing, 1952, Black and White Photograph by Art Shay, Signed and Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Street Photography was a true love of Art Shay's and is completely evident in this black and white shot from 1952 of a young shirtless boy sparing with an unseen opponent.
Art Shay
Kid Boxing...
Category
20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Young Pool Shark, Chicago 1949, Black & White Photograph, Framed, Signed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
1940s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Liz Taylor Smelling Smell-O-Vision, Chicago, 1960
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
The Scent of Mystery was a 1960 movie with a new gimmick. “Smell-o-Vision” made the miracle possible with a machine that would release scents such as fresh-baked bread, perfume and ...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Wrestling Action, 1975, Black & White Photo, Multiple Frames, Framed & Signed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Wrestling action is captured in this multi-framed photography by Art Shay. Five frames show the take down and the referee's decision. The photo is matted with a heavy white mat, si...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Andy Griffith on Train in Nashville, 1961
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Famed Mayberry Sheriff Andy Taylor, (AKA, Andy Griffith) is show here in uniform enjoying a train ride. The photograph was taken by Art Shay in Nashvill...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Eyeball Freak, Circus Side Show Curiosity, Silver Gelatin Print, Framed, 1952
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.”
Roger Ebert
“[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Three to Four Ages of Women - Black and White Street Photography by Art Shay
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay's true love was street photography. It is evidently clear in this shot entitled "The Three, Maybe Four, Ages of Women" with the young mannequin bride, the middle aged women...
Category
1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
Lovejoy AKA Brooklyn, Illinois, Crossing the Street, for Ebony Magazine, 1952
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Shay
Brooklyn: Crossing the Street, 1952
silver gelatin print
24.25 x 20.25 framed
ASY095
Art Shay photographed the community of Brooklyn, IL for Ebony Magazine, 1952. These ph...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Tracks to War, New Jersey, 1943, Black and White Photograph, Signed, Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
“Art Shay’s photography shakes you up, sets you down gently, pats you on the head and then kicks you in the ass.” Roger Ebert “[Shay’s work] ranks with some of the greats of the 20...
Category
Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Wrassle Mania, 1975, Multi-Exposure Black and White Photograph, Framed, Signed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
This multi-exposure photograph in what Art called "wrassling" shows all angles of the sport of wrestling. The photograph is signed on the back and matted with a heavy white mat and ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Archival Pigment
"Man of Steel" Tony Zale Coaches CYO Youth, 1950, Signed, Black & White Photo
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Two-Time World Middleweight champion Tony Zale was know as the Man of Steel. He left the ring in 1948 and is shown here coaching youth in Chicago. The p...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Street Transaction, 1949 Vintage Silver Gelatin Print, Signed, Matted and Framed
By Art Shay
Located in Chicago, IL
Street Photography was a true love of Art Shay as is clearly evident in this 1949 Vintage Photo of a street transaction. The photograph is matted and framed in a simple black metal ...
Category
1940s Contemporary Black and White Photography
Materials
Silver Gelatin
Contemporary black and white photography for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a wide variety of authentic Contemporary black and white photography available for sale on 1stDibs. Works in this style were very popular during the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artists have continued to produce works inspired by this movement. If you’re looking to add black and white photography created in this style to introduce contrast in an otherwise neutral space in your home, the works available on 1stDibs include elements of blue, red, orange, purple and other colors. Many Pop art paintings were created by popular artists on 1stDibs, including Tyler Shields, Ian Sanderson, Kirsten Thys van den Audenaerde, and David Yarrow. Frequently made by artists working with Pigment Print, and Archival Pigment Print and other materials, all of these pieces for sale are unique and have attracted attention over the years. Not every interior allows for large Contemporary black and white photography, so small editions measuring 1.5 inches across are also available.