1956 was a pivotal year in American politics, marked by a contentious presidential election and social unrest. Robert Frank, a Swiss photographer, documented this tumultuous period, capturing significant moments such as the Democratic National Convention. His work, including the influential photo book “The Americans,” reflects the era’s struggles with division, McCarthyism, and the burgeoning civil rights movement. Frank transitioned to filmmaking, creating impactful independent films while later returning to photography, continuing to explore personal themes and societal issues.
Presidential Elections and Social Turmoil in 1956
The year 1956 marked a significant moment in American history with its presidential elections, echoing the polarized political climate we see today. The Republicans emerged victorious, and during this period, Robert Frank found himself in Chicago, capturing pivotal moments as the Democrats nominated their candidate, Adlai Stevenson. One of his striking photographs features the influential New York politician Carmine DeSapio, who is depicted wearing sunglasses and smoking a cigar while engaging with his delegation at the Democratic National Convention.
Back then, the United States was rife with division. The atmosphere was charged with fear and uncertainty; McCarthyism was in full swing, targeting dissenters and alleged communists. The repercussions of the Korean War were still felt throughout the nation, while the civil rights movement was beginning to gain momentum, demanding an end to legalized racial discrimination. Much like today, issues surrounding borders, immigration, and the economic struggles of voters were at the forefront of political discourse, with slogans like “Fix it” resonating through the air.
Robert Frank: The Visionary Photographer
In 1956, at the age of 32, Robert Frank embarked on a transformative journey across the United States with his family. Awarded a scholarship to document the nation, he had arrived from Switzerland just eight years prior and was on the brink of producing one of the most significant photographic works of the 1950s. Interestingly, this was Frank’s first major road trip, having never owned a car before. His travels spanned 48 states, resulting in an impressive collection of 28,000 photographs, which culminated in the iconic photo book, “The Americans,” showcasing 83 carefully selected images.
Among the captivating images was the aforementioned shot of Carmine DeSapio, as well as the poignant “Trolley,” taken in New Orleans, highlighting the stark realities of racial segregation. Esteemed Beatnik author Jack Kerouac lauded Frank as a “poet of the gaze,” recognizing his ability to convey deep emotions and narratives through his lens. Frank’s work adeptly captured the essence of American life, from the struggles of the working class to the complexities of modern capitalism.
Had Frank been sent out to document today’s America, one could imagine a similar portrayal of the stark wealth gap and societal tensions. He faced challenges during his time too, often being perceived as an outsider. His Swiss nationality sometimes led to uncomfortable encounters, including being removed from locations if officials disapproved of his presence.
Transitioning from photography to filmmaking, Frank’s early fame became both a blessing and a burden. He shifted gears in the late 1950s, experimenting with film and creating works that laid the foundation for what would later be known as “Independent Cinema” in the United States. His avant-garde films, such as “Pull My Daisy,” broke conventional storytelling molds, reflecting the radical spirit of the era.
Frank’s collaborations with legendary bands like the Rolling Stones led to the controversial film “Cocksucker Blues,” which, due to its raw portrayal of rock ‘n’ roll life, was suppressed by the band. His later films delved into personal tragedies, including the loss of his daughter Andrea in a plane crash and the struggles of his son Pablo with mental illness, all of which he explored in works like “Conversation in Vermont” and “Life Dances On.”
Returning to photography, Frank’s later works shifted focus to his personal surroundings, particularly in Cape Breton, Canada. His second major photo book, “The Lines of my Hand,” introduced collages blending text and imagery, marking a new narrative style in his career. These evocative images are now featured in a retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, celebrating Frank’s legacy as he would have turned 100.
The June Leaf and Robert Frank Foundation is also committed to bringing Frank’s lesser-known works to light, showcasing pieces with evocative titles that reflect his intimate experiences and thoughts. Despite the passage of time, Frank’s iconic “The Americans” continues to resonate, with a set of 83 original prints recently emerging from a bank vault, poised to be sold for a substantial sum, ensuring his impact on American culture endures.