Martha Cooper has long been hailed as a leading figure in the documentation of graffiti culture, a crucial figure in capturing the explosion of street art in the 1970s and 80s. Through her lens, we have witnessed the birth and evolution of a global artistic movement, which has transformed not only the urban landscape but also the way we perceive public spaces.
In this article, we delve into the life and career of the legendary graffiti photographer Martha Cooper, exploring her contributions to the art world and her lasting impact on generations of artists and photographers.
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| Martha Cooper 2014. Photo Boris Niehaus, Wikimedia. |
Early Life
Born in 1943 in Baltimore, Maryland, Martha Cooper grew up in an environment that encouraged creativity and exploration. Her father, a professional photographer, served as an early inspiration, teaching her the basics of photography at a young age. After completing a bachelor's degree in art and archaeology at Grinnell College, Cooper pursued a master's in ethnology and folklore at Indiana University, further fuelling her passion for documenting cultures and communities.
Career Beginnings
Martha Cooper's career began in the 1960s, when she worked as an intern for National Geographic, traveling to Thailand and Japan on assignment. In 1975, she moved to New York City and began working as a staff photographer for the New York Post. It was during this time that she encountered the burgeoning graffiti movement.
Capturing the Birth of Graffiti
In the late 1970s and early 80s, New York City was experiencing a wave of urban decay, which provided the perfect canvas for young artists seeking to express themselves. Graffiti exploded onto the scene, with subway trains becoming the preferred medium for these renegade artists. Despite being largely dismissed as vandalism by the public, Martha Cooper saw something more – a vibrant, energetic art form that deserved documentation.
Her curiosity led her to befriend many of the artists, and she began to chronicle their work, capturing not only the finished pieces but also the process and the people behind them. Martha Cooper's empathetic approach to documenting this subculture allowed her to gain the trust of the graffiti artists and provided her with unparalleled access to their world.
Subway Art
In 1984, Martha Cooper and fellow photographer Henry Chalfant published the seminal book "Subway Art." This groundbreaking work captured the essence of the graffiti movement, showcasing the intricate designs and unique styles of the artists who risked arrest and injury to bring their creations to life. "Subway Art" quickly became known as the graffiti bible, inspiring generations of artists and contributing to the legitimisation of graffiti as a legitimate art form.
Global Impact
The publication of "Subway Art" had a profound global impact, with copies of the book making their way around the world. Young artists in cities as far-flung as London, Paris, and Sydney were influenced by the work of New York City's graffiti artists, and the book served as a catalyst for the development of street art scenes in these urban centers. As a result, graffiti and street art began to be recognised as a global artistic movement, with Martha Cooper's documentation playing a crucial role in this evolution.
Enduring Legacy
Throughout her career, Martha Cooper has continued to document the growth and development of graffiti and street art. Her body of work now spans over four decades, capturing the changing styles, techniques, and subject matter of countless artists. In addition to her photography, Cooper has also been involved in numerous exhibitions, publications, and films, further cementing her status as an integral figure in the graffiti community.
As graffiti and street art have gained mainstream acceptance, many of the artists who once risked their freedom to create have now found success in the art world, with their work featured in galleries, museums,
and private collections. This shift in public perception can be partially attributed to the tireless efforts of Martha Cooper and her dedication to showcasing the artistic merit of these once-underground movements.
and private collections. This shift in public perception can be partially attributed to the tireless efforts of Martha Cooper and her dedication to showcasing the artistic merit of these once-underground movements.
In recent years, Cooper's influence has extended beyond the world of graffiti and street art, with her work becoming a source of inspiration for photographers, filmmakers, and urban explorers alike. Her pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of a subculture have made her a role model for many, demonstrating the power of photography as a tool for cultural preservation and understanding.
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| Martha "Marty" Birthday tribute mural. Photo David Shankbone, Wikimedia Commons. |
Martha Cooper's photography has also served as a historical record of the changing urban landscapes of New York City and other cities around the world. Her images not only immortalise the artwork but also provide glimpses into the socio-political context of the times, making her work an invaluable resource for researchers and historians.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout her illustrious career, Martha Cooper has received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the art world and the documentation of graffiti culture. Some of her notable achievements include the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Urban Art Fair in Paris, the 2019 Henry Chalfant Award for Excellence in Urban Arts, and the 2018 Pioneering Women in Photography Award from the International Center of Photography.
Continued Passion
Now in her seventies, Martha Cooper shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to travel the globe, documenting the ever-evolving world of graffiti and street art. Her recent projects include collaborations with artists from South Africa, Brazil, and Myanmar, further highlighting the global impact of her work and her commitment to showcasing the talents of artists from diverse backgrounds.
In Conclusion
Martha Cooper's enduring passion for graffiti and street art has led her to become one of the most respected and influential figures in the documentation and preservation of this unique art form. Her groundbreaking work in "Subway Art" and the countless images she has captured over the years have not only served to legitimise graffiti as an artistic movement but have also inspired countless artists and photographers around the world.
As we reflect on her extraordinary career and the lasting impact she has had on the art world, it becomes clear that Martha Cooper's legacy will continue to inspire and inform future generations. Her unwavering dedication to capturing the spirit of graffiti and street art serves as a testament to the power of photography and its ability to connect communities, bridge cultures, and transform our understanding of the world around us.
1. When did Martha Cooper first become interested in graffiti and street art?
FAQ's
1. When did Martha Cooper first become interested in graffiti and street art?
Answer: Martha Cooper first became interested in graffiti and street art in the late 1970s while working as a staff photographer for the New York Post. She was drawn to the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the art on subway trains and began documenting the work of graffiti artists, eventually leading to her groundbreaking book, "Subway Art."
2. Has Martha Cooper collaborated with any graffiti artists?
Answer: Yes, throughout her career, Martha Cooper has collaborated with several graffiti artists. Her close relationships with many of these artists allowed her to gain unprecedented access to their world, enabling her to capture their creative processes and finished works in a unique and authentic way.
3. What cameras and equipment does Martha Cooper use for her photography?
Answer: Martha Cooper has used various cameras and equipment throughout her career, including 35mm film cameras and digital cameras. She has been known to use Nikon cameras and lenses, but the specific equipment may vary depending on the project and the era of her work.
4. Has Martha Cooper's work been exhibited in galleries and museums?
Answer: Yes, Martha Cooper's work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums around the world. Her photography has been featured in both solo and group exhibitions, showcasing her documentation of graffiti and street art and its impact on the global art scene.
5. Is Martha Cooper involved in any outreach or educational programs related to graffiti and street art?
Answer: Martha Cooper has participated in various outreach and educational programs throughout her career, including lectures, workshops, and panel discussions. She has shared her knowledge and experiences with aspiring artists, photographers, and enthusiasts, promoting a greater understanding of graffiti and street art and its cultural significance.
6. Are there any documentaries or films about Martha Cooper and her work?
Answer: Yes, there are several documentaries and films that focus on Martha Cooper and her contributions to the world of graffiti and street art. One notable example is the
7. How has Martha Cooper's work influenced the perception of graffiti as an art form?
Answer: Martha Cooper's work has played a significant role in shifting public perception of graffiti from being seen as mere vandalism to a legitimate and respected art form. By capturing the intricate designs, styles, and techniques of graffiti artists and presenting their work in a professional and artistic context, she has contributed to the broader acceptance and appreciation of graffiti and street art in the mainstream art world.
8. Are there any books featuring Martha Cooper's photography other than "Subway Art"?
Answer: Yes, Martha Cooper has been involved in several other publications, both as an author and as a featured photographer. Some of her other books include "Hip Hop Files: Photographs 1979-1984," "Street Play," "We B*Girlz," and "Tag Town: The Evolution of New York Graffiti Writing." These books showcase various aspects of her work, including her documentation of hip hop culture, children's street games, and the development of graffiti writing.
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