Martha Cooper was born on October 21, 1943 in Baltimore, Maryland. She developed a passion for art at a young age, which eventually led her to pursue a degree in art from Grinnell College. It was during her time in college that she discovered her love for photography.
Cooper's interest in photography was sparked when she traveled to Japan and began photographing tattoos. This ignited a lifelong passion for capturing unique and unconventional forms of art. In the 1970s, she moved to New York City, where she became enamored with the burgeoning graffiti scene.
Cooper quickly recognized the artistic value of graffiti and began documenting the works of street artists throughout the city. Her photographs captured the vibrant colors, intricate designs, and bold statements that adorned the walls and subway cars of New York. Through her lens, she introduced the world to a form of art that was previously marginalized and misunderstood.
In 1984, Cooper's groundbreaking collection of graffiti photography, "Subway Art," was published. This book, co-authored with Henry Chalfant, showcased stunning images of graffiti from the streets and subways of New York City. "Subway Art" became a seminal work in the street art movement and has since been hailed as "the Bible of street art" by many.
Cooper's work has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Post, National Geographic, and Smithsonian. Her photographs have not only captured the essence of graffiti culture but have also helped to legitimize and celebrate the art form.
Throughout her career, Cooper has continued to document street art and urban culture around the world. She has traveled to cities across the globe, from Tokyo to São Paulo, capturing the creativity and expression of local artists. Her images serve as a visual archive of a constantly evolving art movement.
Outside of her photography career, Cooper married an anthropologist, with whom she shares a passion for exploring different cultures and communities. Together, they have embarked on numerous adventures, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of diverse environments.
Martha Cooper's impact on the world of photography and street art cannot be overstated. Through her lens, she has given a voice to the voiceless, shining a light on the creativity and resilience of urban artists. Her work continues to inspire and influence a new generation of photographers and artists, proving that art knows no boundaries.
As we look to the future, it is clear that Martha Cooper's legacy will endure, providing a lasting record of a dynamic and ever-changing artistic movement.