about
I met Dustin Pittman back in the early 1970s; This was an era when New York City was a hub of cultural transformation, with fashion playing a pivotal role. The 1970s were a time of great change in the fashion world, marked by the rise of disco, punk, and a new wave of American designers like Halston, Willi Smith and Stephen Sprouse, who were redefining the urban style with their minimalist and body-conscious designs. New York, particularly, was a melting pot of styles, from the glamorous nights at Studio 54 to the avant-garde scenes in SoHo and the Bowery. It was here that fashion icons like Bianca Jagger, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Patti Smith left their mark on the city's fashion landscape. Dustin Pittman, with his lens, captured the essence of this vibrant era, blending into the city's diverse cultural scenes, from the underground art world to the glamorous fashion and music industries. His latest book, "Dustin Pittman: New York After Dark," published by Rizzoli Publications, offers a captivating glimpse into this era, showcasing Pittman's unique ability to document the city's nightlife with unparalleled intimacy and flair.
Pittman's journey into photography began in the Adirondack Mountains, where he grew up. His fascination with photography was sparked by fashion and music magazines he devoured at the local mall. After working on the set of "The Sterile Cuckoo," starring Liza Minnelli, Pittman moved to New York City in February 1969. He enrolled at the School of Visual Arts for film and photography, marking the beginning of his career as a photographer
One of the pivotal moments in Pittman's career was his introduction to Andy Warhol. This encounter not only opened doors to the vibrant world of Warhol's Factory but also introduced him to a network of influential figures, including Warhol Superstars like Jackie Curtis and Ingrid Superstar. Pittman's friendship with Warhol and his entourage allowed him to capture intimate moments of the era's most iconic figures.
Warhol's Factory was a hub for artistic innovation and experimentation, and Pittman's involvement in this scene provided him with unparalleled access to the city's avant-garde community. He often attended cabarets and clubs with Warhol, meeting other influential figures like Lou Reed and Taylor Mead. These experiences shaped Pittman's photographic style, which blended spontaneity with a deep understanding of the cultural context.
Pittman's career was marked by friendships and encounters with numerous celebrities and influential figures:
Andy Warhol: Beyond being a mentor and friend, Warhol introduced Pittman to the heart of New York's avant-garde scene. Pittman often recounts stories of Warhol's generosity, including attempts to pay actors in his films with paintings instead of cash.
Liza Minnelli: Pittman's early work on the set of "The Sterile Cuckoo" brought him into contact with Minnelli, who became a recurring subject in his photographs.
Halston, Yves Saint Laurent, and Calvin Klein: As a photographer deeply embedded in the fashion world, Pittman captured the essence of these iconic designers and their influence on New York's style.
David Bowie, Diana Ross, and Grace Jones: These music icons frequently appeared in Pittman's photographs, showcasing their impact on the city's nightlife and cultural landscape.
Debbie Harry: Pittman's images of a pre-Blondie Debbie Harry highlight his ability to capture the unguarded moments of rising stars.
Diana Vreeland: Pittman's relationship with Vreeland, the legendary editor of Vogue, was built on mutual respect. She admired his work, and he learned much from her creative vision.
"Dustin Pittman: New York After Dark" is more than a collection of photographs; it is a time capsule of New York City's most vibrant era. The book features over 270 pages of candid black-and-white images taken between 1967 and 1982, showcasing Pittman's access to the city's most exclusive clubs, including CBGB's and Studio 54. The photographs are accompanied by firsthand anecdotes and memories from Pittman himself, providing a personal narrative that complements the visual history.
The book is a testament to Pittman's unique position within the city's cultural elite. He was not merely a photographer but an active participant in the scenes he captured. His friendships with his subjects allowed him to document unguarded moments that would otherwise remain unseen.
Pittman's work has been praised for its transgenerational appeal, blending high and low culture in a way that is both refined and gritty. His photographs evoke a sense of being part of the moment, as if the viewer is dancing alongside the subjects. This ability to transport viewers into the heart of New York's nightlife has made Pittman's work timeless.
The launch of "New York After Dark" was met with immense enthusiasm, with copies selling out quickly at its debut event. The book serves as a love letter to New York City, capturing the essence of a bygone era when creativity and freedom reigned supreme.
Dustin Pittman's journey from the Adirondacks to becoming a legendary photographer of New York City's nightlife is a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft. Through his lens, we see not just celebrities but friends and companions in the vibrant tapestry of 1970s and 1980s New York. "New York After Dark" is a must-have for anyone fascinated by the city's cultural history and the photographer who captured its essence so beautifully.
