Nearly 100 years ago, the Bay Area changed photography

Group f. 64, formed in 1932 by eleven Bay Area photographers including Imogen Cunningham and Ansel Adams, redefined photography by prioritizing sharp images over the prevalent soft aesthetic. Their impact is celebrated in the SFMOMA exhibition ‘Around Group f. 64,’ which runs until July 13 and connects their legacy to modern artists. Janet Delaney and Zig Jackson, both featured in the exhibition, shared insights into how Group f.

64's approach influenced their work, which addresses both aesthetic and political dimensions. Delaney's series captures the transformation of the South of Market neighborhood, while Jackson's photographs highlight the ongoing presence and strength of Native American identity. The exhibition also showcases historical pieces, including Edward Weston's portraits of activist Langston Hughes, reflecting the socio-political narratives of their time. Erin O’Toole, the curator, emphasized the interconnectedness of the stories presented and the significance of Group f. 64 in the Bay Area's artistic history.

Delaney is currently working on a follow-up series, ‘SoMa Now,’ to document ongoing changes in the neighborhood. The exhibition serves as a reminder of how photography can bridge past and present, fostering understanding of contemporary issues.