First of All...

The Leica Gallery in Heidelberg dedicates its first exhibition to photographer legends who have made photographic history with their images.

"First of All ..." includes documentary works by famous photographers, including Barbara Klemm, Steve McCurry, Thomas Hoepker, Walter Vogel, Jürgen Schadeberg, Ralph Gibson and Joel Meyerowitz. All of them have one thing in common: they are winners of the prestigious Leica Hall of Fame Award . Elliott Erwitt, this year's winner of the award, is also represented with his humorous and smile-inducing snapshots.

The history of the Leica camera is closely linked to the history of photography, as many iconic images have it to thank for having been captured. The exhibition creates a cross-genre show of works in which personalities as well as street and landscape scenes convey the versatility of the medium.

The viewer is in close proximity to the most witty fists in history, those of Muhammad Ali, who was photographed by Thomas Hoepker for Stern Magazine over several years. every now and then The image of Steve McCurry's Afghan Girl is also etched in society's memory.

As a creative counterpoint, the colorful, vibrant street scenes by Joel Meyerowitz tell of everyday life and invite you to explore with their wealth of detail. Another position is taken by Ralph Gibson's photographs, which represent a kind of haven of calm. His pictures thrive on reduced composition, focusing on the essential and encouraging the viewer to think.

It is not without reason that all protagonists of this exhibition manifest the uniqueness of each snapshot.

Period: December 8, 2023 to February 17, 2024