Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Diane Arbus Turned Her Camera on New York"

Host: Alison Stewart | Guests: Matthew Humery (Curator) & Neil Selkirk (Print Developer)
Release Date: July 7, 2025

Introduction to "Constellation" Exhibition

In this episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves into the comprehensive exhibition of renowned photographer Diane Arbus titled "Constellation." Displayed at the Park Avenue Armory in New York, the exhibit showcases over 400 of Arbus's photographs, offering a sprawling and immersive experience devoid of traditional exhibition constraints.

Alison Stewart introduces the exhibition:

"The exhibit is called Constellation. The most comprehensive exhibit of the work of photographer Diane Arbus is currently up at the Park Avenue Armory."
(00:31)

Insights from Curator Matthew Humery

Matthew Humery, the show's creator and curator, explains the conceptual framework behind "Constellation." The exhibition eschews a linear or thematic arrangement, allowing visitors to experience Arbus's work organically, akin to her spontaneous street photography in New York.

Matthew Humery discusses the exhibition's freedom:

"It's more like the freedom of discovering in your own way the picture... an opportunity for the viewer to experiment something different."
(05:14)

He further elaborates on the exhibition's immersive design:

"It's not just immersive, it's just also like... it just gives you the possibility of navigating the way you want and discovering things."
(05:57)

Neil Selkirk’s Unique Role and Connection to Arbus

Neil Selkirk, the sole authorized printer of Arbus's photographs since her passing, provides a personal perspective on the exhibition and his relationship with the artist. He recounts his first encounter with Arbus's work in 1968, which left a profound impact on him.

Neil Selkirk shares his initial reaction to Arbus's photography:

"I was completely devastated, absolutely devastated by this image. I have never before or since been affected by a work of art in that way."
(02:07)

He details his accidental path to working with Arbus:

"Completely by chance that I'm not basically a printer... when I got back to New York in November, you know, lo and behold, they were sort of waiting for me because I was out of a job."
(18:05)

Designing the Exhibition Layout

Matthew Humery discusses the inspiration behind the exhibition's layout, drawing parallels between Arbus's work and impressionist painters who ventured outside their studios to capture reality.

Matthew Humery explains the exhibition’s structural concept:

"I was in a subway reading that. And then... I saw the map of the subway. And I realized that there was a kind of synchronicity. And you gave me the idea, oh, that's how I should organize the show."
(20:02)

He highlights the three-dimensional aspect of the display:

"With this three-dimensional aspect... integrating the visitor part of the installation and part of the work."
(22:47)

Highlighting Arbus's Photographic Philosophy

The conversation shifts to Arbus's unique approach to photography. Unlike many artists, Arbus focused deeply on understanding her subjects, viewing her photographs as records of personal interactions rather than mere artistic expressions.

Neil Selkirk outlines Arbus's intent:

"She primarily wanted to meet them. The photograph was an almost incidental product, a record of that meeting."
(16:07)

Addressing Sensitive Content

Humery addresses the challenge of presenting Arbus's work, some of which includes language and themes that might be considered offensive today. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the original context and language to preserve the authenticity and historical significance of Arbus's work.

Matthew Humery on handling sensitive language:

"Because that's part of the history, that's part of... it's the title. So I didn't want to change anything."
(27:29)

Reflections on the Exhibition’s Impact

Both Humery and Selkirk express their hopes for the exhibition's impact on viewers. They aim for audiences to recognize the universality in Arbus's subjects, moving beyond the perception of her focusing solely on the fringes of society.

Neil Selkirk shares his vision:

"You can look in this huge show which is just this mass of humans and realize that they're all part of the... everyone was actually human."
(28:05)

Notable Quotes

• Matthew Humery on exhibition organization:

  "It's like walking in the street, like Central Park or in Thompson Park anywhere in New York."
  (10:21)

• Neil Selkirk on Arbus's inclusivity:

  "She was really interested overwhelmingly in everyone that she has this reputation for people on the fringe, but in fact, those just happened to be the ones that people were surprised to see."
  (25:23)

Conclusion

Alison Stewart concludes the discussion by highlighting the significance of "Constellation" in celebrating Diane Arbus's legacy. The exhibition not only honors Arbus's extensive body of work but also invites visitors to engage with the diverse and intricate tapestry of New York City's cultural landscape through her lens.

"The new exhibition of the work of photographer Diane Arbus is now on display at the Park Avenue Armory. It's called Constellation."
(28:58)

For those interested in exploring Diane Arbus's profound and expansive body of work, "Constellation" at the Park Avenue Armory offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in her unique perspective of New York City and its inhabitants.