Merry Christmas From Lee Friedlander

On his many trips across the United States, Lee Friedlander has famously documented the social landscape and tapestry of the country in his own inimitable, unique way. For more than half a century, his personal and often oblique visual language—filled with the recurring themes of reflections in mirrors, shadows, signs and cars— has provided a rich and distinctive portrait of America.

Friedlander recently combed his archive in search of photographs that celebrate the season of Christmas. The result is a selection of photographs—all of which are new or have never been shown—currently on exhibition at Janet Borden, Inc. in New York. Consistent with Friedlander’s interests and style, the photographs—some which barely hint at the presence of Christmas—present an alternative and grittier view of the holiday. In Friedlander’s images, Christmas is sometimes filled with imprisoned Santas, neglected garlands and sobriety instead.

The photographs are funny, poignant and stunning gift from a master photographer—all in time for the holiday season.

Merry Christmas From Lee Friedlander is on view at Janet Borden, Inc New York through Dec. 31.

Lee Friedlander is an American photographer who has received three Guggenheim Foundation Fellowships. He is the first photographer to receive a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Award. Monographs of his work include: Self-Portrait, American Monuments, American Musicians, and America By Car.