Diane Arbus's 'Constellation': A Journey Through New York's Humanity

Diane Arbus, renowned for her intimate and often challenging portrayals of marginalized individuals, returns to the forefront of contemporary art with a new exhibition titled "Diane Arbus: Constellation." On display at the Park Avenue Armory until August 17, 2025, this exhibition is a tribute to the photographer's legacy, featuring over 450 images, many of which have never been exhibited publicly before. Curated by Matthieu Humery, the layout of the exhibition mirrors the complexity of New York City itself, encouraging viewers to navigate the space much like Arbus navigated the city streets in search of her subjects.

The show opens with a vast array of faces presented in a seemingly chaotic arrangement, devoid of traditional chronological or thematic classifications. The absence of wall labels or titles prompts visitors to engage with the photographs on a personal level, reflecting the subjective experience of encountering Arbus's subjects. Humery describes the exhibition as an invitation to "look around and find your own way," a sentiment that resonates with Arbus's own artistic philosophy.

Neil Selkirk, the sole printer authorized to produce Arbus's images posthumously, played a pivotal role in this exhibition. According to Selkirk, "All I’ve ever been is the guy who made the prints," emphasizing the meticulous nature of his work in replicating Arbus's unique vision and technique. His involvement ensures that the integrity of Arbus's work remains intact, allowing new generations to appreciate her art in its most authentic form.

Arbus’s photographs, which include portraits of society's outliers—from cross-dressers to carnival performers—challenge viewers to confront their own preconceptions. Critics have long debated the ethical implications of her work, with some labeling it as voyeuristic. However, Semkirk argues that Arbus maintained a non-judgmental stance, capturing her subjects as they were without imposing a narrative. "The photograph was just a record of something that was," he states, encapsulating the essence of her work.

The exhibition also features a 90-minute film, "What Diane Arbus Wasn’t Doing, And How She Wasn’t Doing It," which addresses the critiques Arbus faced during her lifetime. The film serves to contextualize her work within broader societal discussions about representation and the ethics of photography.

In a striking moment within the exhibition, visitors may encounter a photograph of two young women with Down syndrome, embodying the vulnerability and beauty Arbus sought to capture. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing societal biases that persist against individuals with disabilities. Selkirk hopes that viewers will leave with a renewed commitment to empathy and understanding, noting, "A decision to be less judgmental" is what he hopes to inspire.

Historically, Arbus's work has been both celebrated and critiqued. The 1972 retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) was met with mixed reviews, with detractors arguing that her photographs exploited their subjects. Yet, her supporters assert that Arbus's work offers a necessary reflection of societal truths. This duality is central to understanding her legacy and the ongoing conversations surrounding her art.

As "Constellation" continues to unfold at the Park Avenue Armory, it invites audiences not only to reflect on the nature of Arbus's work but also to engage with the complexities of identity and representation in contemporary society. By revisiting the past through Arbus's lens, the exhibition offers a space for dialogue about the narratives we construct around those who exist at the margins of society. In doing so, it reaffirms Arbus's enduring impact on photography and the broader cultural landscape.

In conclusion, "Diane Arbus: Constellation" is more than an exhibition; it is a compelling exploration of humanity, urging viewers to confront their biases and embrace the diverse tapestry of urban life. As the exhibition runs through the summer of 2025, it stands as a testament to Arbus's legacy, challenging us to reflect on our perceptions and the stories behind each face that graces her lens.