Diane Keaton's photobooth strips, which sold for a staggering amount at auction, offer a fascinating glimpse into the actress's photographic eye and her unique approach to art. What makes these strips particularly intriguing is their simplicity and the way they showcase Keaton's understanding of framing, sequence, and timing. Unlike the celebrity ephemera that often inflates auction prices, these photobooth prints were valued for their photographic merit, with bidders from 39 countries recognizing their artistic potential.
Keaton's use of the photobooth as a creative tool is reminiscent of artists like David Hockney, who similarly explored the limitations and possibilities of photography. While Hockney physically collaged his way out of the constraints of a single frame, Keaton's approach was more instinctive, letting the machine do the sequencing and then choreographing herself within that rhythm. This method, which she applied to her waist-level Rolleiflex shooting and curatorial projects, reveals a photographer's eye rather than a celebrity's hobby.
The auction results, which included high multiples for black and white photographs, color prints, and mixed media collages, reinforce this narrative. Keaton's work consistently outperformed fashion pieces, suggesting that the market values her creative vision and photographic skill. The sale of her Annie Hall script and Ralph Lauren wardrobe, in comparison, highlights the distinction between her creative work and celebrity-driven items.
What's most striking about the photobooth strips is their modesty. They were made with minimal equipment and resources, yet they showcase a deep understanding of photographic principles. This is not the work of a celebrity playing around in a photobooth; it's the work of a photographer who absorbed the lessons of Warhol, Muybridge, and others, using the photobooth as a tool to explore sequence, movement, and timing.
In my opinion, these strips are a testament to Keaton's artistic integrity and her commitment to the photographic process. They remind us that true art is not about the equipment or the celebrity status, but about the vision and skill of the artist. Keaton's work, therefore, is not just a collection of photographs; it's a celebration of the photographic medium and the power of artistic expression.
