Vivian Maier Developed The Real Story Of The Photographer Nanny
When it comes to street photography, Vivian Maier has become a household name. However, it wasn't until after her death that the world truly discovered her photographic genius. Maier was a mysterious, enigmatic figure who worked as a nanny in Chicago for over 40 years. In her spare time, she roamed the streets, taking photographs of everyday life. This article will explore the life of Vivian Maier and how she became one of the most celebrated street photographers of all time.
The Early Years
Vivian Maier was born in New York City in 1926. Her parents were both immigrants, and her mother worked as a laborer in a sweatshop. Maier grew up in poverty, and her parents' tumultuous relationship made for a difficult childhood. Despite these challenges, Maier was a curious child and showed an early interest in photography. She spent much of her free time exploring the city and taking pictures with a camera that her mother had given her.
When Maier was 12 years old, she moved with her mother and brother to France. Her mother hoped that the move would provide better opportunities for her children. Maier quickly embraced the French language and culture, and her love for photography continued to grow. She spent much of her teenage years taking pictures and learning about the art of photography.
The Nanny Years
In the early 1950s, Maier returned to the United States and settled in New York City. She continued to take pictures, but she struggled to make a living as a photographer. In 1956, Maier decided to take a job as a nanny for a wealthy family in Chicago. She would work as a nanny for various families for the next four decades.
Despite her job as a nanny, Maier never lost her passion for photography. She would spend her free time exploring the city, taking pictures of people, buildings, and street scenes. She was known for her unique style, which often captured candid moments of everyday life.
The Discovery Of Her Work
In 2007, John Maloof, a young real estate agent and historian, stumbled upon a box of Maier's photographs at an auction house in Chicago. He bought the box for $380, hoping to find some pictures to use in a book he was writing about the history of the city. What he found inside the box was nothing short of extraordinary.
The box contained over 100,000 negatives, as well as hundreds of undeveloped rolls of film. Maloof was stunned by the quality of Maier's work and began to research her life. He discovered that she had passed away in 2009, virtually unknown and penniless. Maloof decided to dedicate himself to preserving and sharing Maier's work with the world.
The Legacy Of Vivian Maier
Since the discovery of Maier's work, her photographs have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. Her legacy as one of the greatest street photographers of all time has been secured.
Maier's story is a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing art. Without John Maloof's discovery, Maier's work may have been lost forever. Her photographs provide a unique glimpse into a bygone era and capture the essence of what it means to be human.
Conclusion
Vivian Maier was a nanny by profession but a photographer at heart. Her life's work, discovered after her death, has left an indelible mark on the world of street photography. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the value of art and the importance of preserving it. Maier's story is a testament to the power of art to transcend time and connect us all in a shared experience.