[slideshow above]
Finding VIVIAN MAIER is the story of a remarkable photographer who led an unremarkable life. It was only after her death that a treasure trove of over 150,000 images that she had taken during her life–and never shown anyone–was DISCOVERED. Her street PHOTOGRAPHY has been described by some, as perhaps among the finest examples of mid-20th century photography, drawing comparisons to the renowned work of Robert Frank and Diane Arbus.
Maier’s work was discovered at a STORAGE BOX auction by an amateur historian JEFF MALOOF in 2007. Maloof has also written and directed the film with Charlie Siskel. The FILM attempts to piece together what is known about Mailer–who lived and worked as NANNY in Chicago for most of her life–through interviews with people she knew and worked for.

Kirk Douglas at the premiere of the movie Spartacus in Chicago, IL. October 13, 1960
In the end, the film raises as many questions as it answers, but all the same, this is a FASCINATING portrait of a mysterious woman with a HIDDEN TALENT. –P.

New York, NY

Canada

Self-Portrait, 1978

Chicago, 1979

1956

Self-Portrait, Undated

Self-Portrait, 1950s

Chicago, August 1975

Audrey Hepburn at the Chicago premiere of “My Fair Lady” at the RKO Palace Theater. October 23, 1964
All photography by Vivian Maier | View more in the slideshow at the top of the page.
What a coincidence! I wrote about Maier on my blog this week too. I love the photos you included of the mother and daughters at the art museum and the one with the men and woman all wearing bright yellow. Priceless!
http://onequalitythefinest.com/2014/04/26/faire-de-la-photo/
This movie is great. And there’s another really fascinating one that the BBC made. Very different: http://www.vivianmaiermysterymovie.com
What beautiful photography. Thank you so much for sharing; would really not have been made aware otherwise!
p.s. totally agree with Claire’s comment. Have been thoroughly enjoying PFM’s posts.
Linda
This is fab, only just stumbled across this and have been looking at her photographs ever since! Mesmerizing to think that such a talent was hidden behind closed doors for so long.
Just to say I am loving PFM’s contributions to This is Glamorous. They add another dimension to an already great website.
Yes, it’s quite a lovely thought, isn’t it? xR.
This is fascinating. It makes you wonder…. how many more people are out there with hidden talents that could bring beauty to the world.
Saw this film last night – absolutely fascinating. I’ve been looking at her photos all morning.