The Norton Museum of Art’s latest exhibition is now open to the public, offering art enthusiasts an unparalleled glimpse into the illustrious career of renowned photographer Ellen Graham. "Ellen Graham: Unscripted," will be on display from March 2 to June 16, 2024, captivating audiences with a rich tapestry of portraiture spanning across six decades.

At the heart of the exhibition lies Graham's distinctive approach to photography, characterized by an intimate portrayal of her subjects that transcends conventional boundaries. Dr. Lauren Richman, the Norton's esteemed William and Sarah Ross Soter Curator of Photography, has expressed her excitement for the forthcoming showcase, "This exhibition and the accompanying catalogue provide a contemporary reading of Graham’s photographs through the lens of ‘the unscripted.’"

"Ellen Graham: Unscripted" is a profound exploration of Graham's oeuvre, offering profound insights into her successes and challenges throughout her remarkable career. Drawing from a curated selection of Graham's gifted images from 2021, alongside pieces loaned from the Ellen Graham Archive, the exhibition is poised to provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of Graham's unparalleled talent and photographic legacy.


Alexis Graham at the opening of Ellen Graham:Unscripted


Whitney Port at the opening of Ellen Graham:Unscripted

Ghislain d’Humières, the Norton's esteemed Kenneth C. Griffin Director and CEO, has hailed Graham's contribution to the museum, emphasizing the transformative impact of her generous gift to establish a named endowment, “The collection of photographs from Ellen Graham will engage and delight Museum visitors for years to come. In addition to these works, two years ago, the Museum was the recipient of a transformative gift from The Ellen and Ian Graham Foundation to establish a named endowment and name the Museum’s third floor.”

With over 400 subjects on display, including iconic public figures from the 20th century, the exhibition promises to captivate audiences with Graham's ability to capture the essence of her subjects with authenticity and depth.

Beyond her celebrated portraits of celebrities, Graham's street scenes offer a compelling glimpse into the fabric of life in cities around the globe. From the bustling streets of New York City to the romantic alleyways of Venice, Graham's lens celebrates the beauty of everyday moments with unparalleled nuance and sensitivity.

Ellen Graham's illustrious career, marked by collaborations with major U.S. magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar, People, and Time, underscores her profound impact on the world of photography. Her ability to disarm her subjects and reveal their authentic selves has cemented her status as one of the most influential photographers of her generation.

Reflecting on her craft, Graham shared her gratitude for the transformative power of photography and her role in promoting the art form. The exhibition pays homage to her legacy, featuring a captivating array of iconic figures immortalized through Graham's lens, including Sharon Tate, David Bowie, and Julie Andrews, among others.


Sharon Tate, Beverly Hills, CA, 1968 © Ellen Graham

"Ellen Graham: Unscripted" promises to be a poignant journey through time and emotion, inviting visitors to witness the artistry and humanity captured in each frame.