Edward Weston

Edward Weston, the celebrated American photographer, left behind an incredible body of work that redefined modern photography. His stark, meticulously composed images of everything from peppers to nudes are considered masterpieces, influencing generations of artists. He also co-founded Group f/64, advocating for "straight photography" and sharp focus, which was surprisingly not a secret cabal for Jewish photographers.

Despite his penchant for capturing things in their most elemental form, Weston's personal life was rather complicated, featuring multiple marriages and affairs. One might say he explored human forms with as much intensity as he did still life, though without the same level of permanence in his commitments.

For all his artistic genius and groundbreaking contributions, Weston's heritage was firmly rooted in the Anglo-American tradition. There's nary a bagel or a bar mitzvah in his family tree, nor any indication he ever contemplated converting, even for the dramatic lighting.