Friedkin’s Visual Journey: A 50-Year Look at Los Angeles Through His Lens
Iconic Photograph "Woman by the Pool" Spotlights Anthony Friedkin’s Work
Legendary photographer Anthony Friedkin’s most recognized image, "Woman by the Pool," is a striking representation of Los Angeles in the mid-1970s. Captured clandestinely at the Beverly Hills Hotel in 1975, the photograph features a stylish woman poised elegantly by the pool, embodying the glamour of the era.
Friedkin initially sought permission to photograph at the hotel but was denied. “They said we absolutely don’t allow any photography at all at the hotel," Friedkin recalled from his Santa Monica home. "I understood it since wealthy people can be very guarded."
However, a twist of fate arrived when a former girlfriend invited him to visit. Dressed as a tennis player, with his Leica camera in tow, he spotted the woman by the pool and seized the moment. “I dropped to my knees and took two shots of her and walked away. It was meant to be,” he said. “Sometimes fate plays a hand like an angel coming out of nowhere. All of a sudden I had a historic picture.”
Now 77 years old, Friedkin has captured countless images of Los Angeles, and his work is currently featured at the Von Lintel Gallery through March 7. The exhibition, titled "Ex Post Facto," presents a retrospective encompassing more than five decades of photography.
Friedkin’s journey began at the age of eight when he first picked up a Kodak Brownie. By eleven, he had already built his own darkroom. The exhibition includes selections from some of his most significant projects, including a surfing series that started in 1975 and explores the sport’s obsession, risk, and rituals.
"Since I’m a surfer, the ocean is a spiritual place," Friedkin explained. "It’s my cathedral and connection to our universe. The ocean is so moody. It can be serene or it can be violent." His passion for capturing surfers in action reveals both their athleticism and the emotional stakes involved.
Friedkin’s exploration of gay life in Los Angeles during the early 1970s stands out as a groundbreaking work. This intimate portrayal reflects the vibrant existence of the community before it gained broader visibility. "I saw the horrific way gay people were treated in our country," he noted. “Sex is a celebration of life. Humans need intimacy. It’s how we express ourselves."
Over his illustrious career, Friedkin has photographed for prominent publications like Rolling Stone and Newsweek, documenting lives across various contexts—from the backrooms of New York City brothels to inmates in California prisons. He approaches each subject with dignity, recognizing their humanity.
Despite primarily shooting in black and white, Friedkin appreciates the unique power of dichromatic photography. "What I love about black and white photos is that they cut to the truth," he stated. "Color can be sensual or textural, which is so different than black and white."
As he nears his 70th year behind the lens, Friedkin remains dedicated to capturing the evolving essence of Los Angeles. "I’m not done yet," he affirmed. "I love what I do and I’ve been doing this for a long time."
Reflecting on the changing landscape of journalism, he recalled the risks he faced during Vietnam War protests, noting, "Back then during Vietnam protests cops would hit you over their shoulder with their flashlight. Now you might get blinded."
Fans of Friedkin occasionally reach out, claiming familial ties to the woman in "Woman by the Pool." "People try to scam me to get a print," he said, noting that these claims often unravel quickly.
The famed photograph can be viewed at the Von Lintel Gallery, where Friedkin expressed excitement about the exhibit. "It was a lot of work getting ready for this exhibit, but I’m excited about it. Every decade things change in Los Angeles, but it’s still an amazing city."
Exhibition Details:
When: Noon to 6 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday, through March 7
Where: Von Lintel Gallery, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Avenue, Santa Monica
Cost: Free Admission
Info: 310-559-5700
