Through an Uncommon Lens: The Life and Photography of F. Holland Day

An unjustly forgotten late-19th century photographer ""distinctive for his theatrical costuming, complex symbolism, near-mystical allegories, and skillful manipulation of light, shade, and skin tone,"" Fred Holland Day is supposedly receiving renewed interest; if not, this thorough, absorbing life-and-times-with photographs-will help. Day was born in 1864 in Norwood, Mass., a Boston suburb from which he didn't stray far, and only to find himself enveloped in the intellectual and artistic cliques of the day. Born to Universalist parents, he brought his powerful faith to the art and the artistic scene, helping those around him and mentoring young artists: ""As installer of small displays in his studio, as a jury member for local and regional photo club exhibitions, as a lecturer, mentor, and advocate, Day began to make his mark quietly."" In addition, he co-founded a publishing firm, Copeland and Day, which published works by authors including Stephen Crane and Oscar Wilde. The history of the Boston area in the late nineteenth to early twentieth century is entwined in Day's life; with plenty of recognizable turn-of-the-century personalities and an eclectic sample of work from Day and his contemporaries, this makes a satisfying read for photographers, and in particular fans of the Arts and Crafts movement. 76 b&w photos, 31 illus.