Farewell Charis
It was with sadness that I learned this past week of Charis Wilson’s death. She died November 20th in Santa Cruz, CA, at age 95. Photographers will recall that Charis was Edward Weston’s model, lover, muse, and young wife in the 30’s and 40’s. Together they produced beautiful and important work. Some of the nudes of Charis were groundbreaking and set a standard to which work is measured against even today.
Charis was never a photographer. What she brought to the relationship with Edward was a remarkable set of complimentary skills and attitudes. It is unlikely Weston would have succeeded in his Guggenheim grant proposal were it not for Charis. The work resulting from that grant was a product of their teamwork. And certainly the books and articles during that period were not possible without Charis.
I could go on and on, but instead invite you to learn more about Charis Wilson. May I suggest a wonderful documentary DVD titled “Eloquent Nude: The Love and Legacy of Edward Weston & Charis Wilson.” Filmed in cooperation with Charis when she was 90, even Charis thought it capture the essence of those years they were together. I highly recommended it - for both photographer and nonphotographer alike!
Rest in Peace, Charis.
~Jeff