What I’ve always admired about Jay Maisel is how he sees the world through bold color, playful timing, and an intuitive sense of composition that feels completely natural.
His photographs have this raw, unscripted energy, like the city is performing just for him. Nothing forced, nothing overthought—just light, gesture, and color coming together in a way that feels honest and alive.
Thank you, Steven Goldblatt, for reminding us of his work.
Until next time,
Tomasz
There’s a fascinating documentary about him called Jay Myself. In the 1960’s he bought an old six story bank that was his home, office, studio, gallery and storage facility. A few years ago he decided to sell it and the documentary is about him sorting through and emptying the 72 rooms before the sale. Well worth watching if you can find it online.
Iconic eye and storytelling.