Date of Birth: July 9, 1908
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: June 24, 1976
Biography
Minor White was an influential American photographer, teacher, and writer, best known for his meditative and contemplative style of photography. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, White initially pursued a degree in botany at the University of Minnesota. However, his interest in photography quickly eclipsed his academic pursuits. After serving in World War II, White moved to New York City, where he studied under the tutelage of prominent photographers such as Alfred Stieglitz and Edward Weston. Throughout his career, White was deeply influenced by Eastern philosophies, spirituality, and the works of Carl Jung. His photographs often explored themes of mysticism, transformation, and the human condition. He co-founded the photographic journal Aperture in 1952, which became a significant platform for fine art photography. White also taught at various institutions, including the California School of Fine Arts and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, profoundly impacting generations of photographers and artists. He passed away in 1976, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence contemporary photography.
5 Interesting Facts about Minor White
1. Minor White served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he documented military life through his photography.
2. He studied both botany and English literature before fully committing to a career in photography.
3. White was a co-founder of the influential photographic journal Aperture, which he helped launch in 1952.
4. He was deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism and often incorporated spiritual themes into his work.
5. White’s teaching career included influential positions at the California School of Fine Arts (now the San Francisco Art Institute) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Minor White
1. “One should not only photograph things for what they are but for what else they are.”
2. “Photography is a language more universal than words.”
3. “When gifts are given to me through my camera, I accept them graciously.”
4. “No matter how slow the film, Spirit always stands still long enough for the photographer it has chosen.”
5. “All photographs are self-portraits.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Minor White’s highest net worth is not well-documented as his primary focus was on teaching and artistic endeavors rather than commercial success.
Children
Minor White did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Minor White on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minor_White
2. [Aperture Foundation](https://aperture.org/
4. [Minor White’s Photography on MoMA](https://www.moma.org/artists/6341
5. [Minor White: The Eye That Shapes](https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300065115/minor-white
