The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards: A Unique Art Project
Background
In the 1970s, photographer Mike Mandel had a whimsical idea: to create a set of baseball trading cards featuring famous photographers. Inspired by the popularity of baseball cards among young collectors, Mandel aimed to playfully comment on the growing recognition of photography as a legitimate art form.
Collaboration and Execution
With the support of his advisor Gary Metz and Robert Heinecken, who established UCLA’s photography program, Mandel embarked on a cross-country road trip to photograph 134 photographers. He approached renowned artists such as Ansel Adams and Imogen Cunningham, who eagerly participated in the project.
Satirical Commentary
The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards were not just a collection of portraits; they were a satirical commentary on the commercialization of photography. By placing the photographers in baseball uniforms and poses, Mandel poked fun at the idea that artists were becoming celebrities. He included humorous details on the backs of the cards, such as “Favorite Photography Paper” and quotes from the photographers themselves.
Influence of the Counterculture
The creation of the Baseball Photographer Trading Cards coincided with the social and cultural upheaval of the 1960s and 1970s. Photography played a crucial role in documenting the injustices and protests of the era. Mandel’s project reflected the changing attitudes towards photography, which was no longer seen as merely a technical skill but as a powerful tool for social commentary.
Recognition and Legacy
The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards quickly gained recognition and popularity. They were featured in major publications such as Sports Illustrated and Newsweek, and museums held card trading parties to complete sets. The original run of 402,000 cards has become a rare collector’s item, with complete sets selling for thousands of dollars.
Reissue and Preservation
In recent years, Mandel has reissued the Baseball Photographer Trading Cards as part of a boxed set called “Good 70s.” This set includes reproductions of the original cards, as well as never-before-published work from Mandel’s archives. The reissued cards feature enhanced image quality and come with a pack of fake gum, preserving the nostalgic element of the original project.
Significance and Impact
The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards remain a significant contribution to the history of photography. They not only capture the personalities and styles of renowned photographers but also reflect the changing cultural landscape of the 1970s. By playfully blurring the lines between art and commerce, Mandel challenged traditional notions of artistic legitimacy and opened up new possibilities for the medium of photography.
