Edward S. Curtis and Ben Wittick
Preserving the West
From February 8 to March 1, Mark Sublette Medicine Man Gallery in Tucson, Arizona, will host an exhibition showcasing the works of two of the earliest and most prominent Western photographers, Edward S. Curtis and Ben Wittick. Curtis won an award from a photograph taken of Chief Seattle’s daughter, Princess Angeline, while living in Washington and dedicated much of his life to capturing the lives of North American tribes. Wittick, who also spent his life documenting the Native American tribes of the West, is additionally known for authoring the last known photograph of Billy the Kid.
Titled The Western Vision of Edward Curtis and Ben Wittick, this major show and sale at Medicine Man Gallery is the first time these two powerhouse photographers will be shown together, displaying more than 100 original photographs and photogravures.
“Rarely do collectors have the opportunity to see such a variety of important historical photographs for sale in one setting,” says Mark Sublette, owner of Mark Sublette Medicine Man Gallery. Over a span of 30 years, Curtis, for instance, had the distinction of photographing both Geronimo and Chief Joseph as well as many of the Western and Alaskan Native tribes.
“This exhibit represents both Wittick’s and Curtis’ most desirable images,” says Sublette. “Unlike museum shows, where one would typically see such a comprehensive exhibition, these photographs will all be for sale.”