Water’s Edge by Harry Callahan, Signed First Edition

Water’s Edge by Harry Callahan  

First Edition, First Printing, 1980 

Signed by Harry Callahan 

This is a signed first edition, first printing of the critically acclaimed photobook “Water’s Edge” published by Callaway Editions, Lyme, Connecticut, in 1980. From the publisher: "Water's Edge presents for the first time in a single volume what many consider to be Harry Callahan's greatest achievement in photography -- the Beach Series. From 1941 to [the 1970s], from the shores of Lake Michigan to the dunes of Cape Cod, Callahan has continually returned to this theme. First influenced by Ansel Adams, and later nourished by the encouragement of Moholy-Nagy and Edward Steichen, Callahan's Beach Series reveals a strength and clarity of design and form that are uniquely his own. With a reverential respect toward place, he uses the elements of the landscape -- the ethereal light of the shore, the serene expanses of space, the forms shaped by ocean and wind -- to create an extraordinary series of photographs which is contemporary yet timeless. A.R. Ammon's introductory poem, "Corsons Inlet," evokes a sense of the beach complementary to Callahan's own vision, and in the afterword, Callahan himself writes of the significance of the Beach Series in his photographic oeuvre.”

Containing 49 duotone photographs including 2 two page gatefolds and measuring approximately 13.75” x 11”, the book is bound in beige linen covered boards with a photographically illustrated dust jacket. The book is in Near Fine condition with starting on the gatefolds. The dust jacket is price clipped with some wear especially to the top edge as well as some rubbing to the spine area. The book has been boldly signed by Harry Callahan on the half title page.

Cited in the photobook reference work “The Photobook: A History” by Parr & Badger.

Photographs of the dust jacket, signature page, as well as images contained in the book appear below. Please note that although the photographs appear digitized as thumbnails, they are viewable in the photo viewer by running your mouse over the thumbnail. You can also click on the thumbnail to open a separate window where the picture is viewable.