American Grotesque: The Life and Art of William Mortensen

American Grotesque: The Life and Art of William Mortensen, A Lecture by Larry Lytle

In the first half of the 20th century Mortensen’s contemporaries such as Ansel Adams called him the “Anti-Christ” while thousands of acolytes traveled from across the world to learn his techniques and philosophy at The Mortensen School of Photography in Laguna Beach, California. His books went into multiple printings and photography magazines carrying his articles sold out.

Lytle will present an overview of Mortensen’s life and work, followed by a discussion of his decade-long development as an artist and photographer during Hollywood’s burgeoning silent movie era. During this time his contact with luminaries such as Cecil B. DeMille and Lon Chaney Sr. as well as his friendship with Manly P. Hall formed Mortensen’s photographic philosophy. His exposure to these people as well as the techniques of movie making along with its arresting visual iconography were key to developing his unique and starling photographs. A talented artist, Mortensen abilities as a painter, mask maker, skilled draftsman and maturing photographer gave him entry into the coterie of Los Angeles’ marquee pop culture movers and shakers.

Finally, Lytle will examine why Mortensen’s work is still important; how he became a harbinger foreseeing things to come in today’s art world.

Larry Lytle is a fine artist, commercial artist, writer, and retired educator. Lytle’s artwork has been exhibited in galleries across the country. He has worked as a photographer for such companies, as Sony Wonder, Disney Home Entertainment, Lionsgate Films and many others. He is a contributing writer for Black & White Magazine. And, taught photography for 19 years at California State University Channel Islands.

Lytle’s scholarship on American photographer William Mortensen has resulted in numerous articles, and two publications by Feral House — American Grotesque: The Life and Work of William Mortensen and The Command To Look: A Master’s Photographer’s Method for Controlling the Human Gaze.

Lytle is a Los Angeles native and lives there with his wife Jeanie.

Following the presentation, Larry Lytle will sign copies of his book “American Grotesque: The Life and Art of William Mortensen” (Feral House) on sale at the PRS Bookstore.

This lecture is presented in connection with the William Mortensen Exhibit in the Hansell Gallery in March. Special thanks to: Christina Ward / Feral House.

In-person and Zoom option available! Suggested Donation: $15

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