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The Arts Intel Report

Arne Svenson: The Neighbors

Arne Svenson, Neighbors #5, 2012.

Mar 4 – Apr 22, 2023
Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave B1, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States

Ten years ago, the photographer Arne Svenson unveiled his series “The Neighbors.” From his building in Tribeca, using a telephoto lens, he zoomed in on people who lived in apartments across the street. He documented them at various times of day—sitting at meals, chatting in their living rooms, working. The catch? Svenson didn’t ask for their consent. When the works were exhibited at the Julie Saul Gallery, in Manhattan, uproar ensued. In 2016, the artist won a court case against his aggrieved subjects and the matter was put to rest. This exhibition presents 12 of those controversial shots. Was the uproar warranted? —Elena Clavarino

Photo courtesy of Danziger Gallery