The Easel

2nd June 2026

The chaos and passion of Peter Hujar and Paul Thek

Olivia Laing | The Observer | 29th April 2026

Hujar is becoming a mainstream figure in photography. His images portrayed New York’s downtown demi-monde in the decades before AIDS as well as his relationship with artist Paul Thek. Thek cared little for posterity while Hujar was the opposite and is thus more revealed in a new joint biography. Besides his technical prowess, the magic in Hujar’s images came from an “intense, soulful connection” with his subjects, in contrast to the “chilliness” of Diane Arbus. Says one writer, a “beautiful biography”.

26th May 2026

Remembering Raghu Rai: The photographer who showed India to itself

Abhishek Dey | BBC | 27th April 2026

Rai was widely regarded as one of India’s foremost photographers. He chronicled major national events, such as the 1980’s Sikh militancy, with an understanding of the nation’s contradictions. His portraits of India’s political and social elite shaped how the nation saw its leaders. Just as importantly, he recorded the rhythms of everyday Indian life in a way that “bridged reportage and art”. He aimed, he said, to capture “life’s longing for itself.” Images are here.

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