HARRY CALLAHAN Eleanor, 1978

Original exhibition poster for Harry Callahan, representing the United States at the XXXVIII Biennale di Venezia, 1978 (Padiglione USA). Organized under the auspices of the American Federation of Arts.

This elegant poster features one of Callahan’s most iconic images of his wife and lifelong muse, Eleanor. The black-and-white photograph depicts a nude female figure reclining in a natural landscape, rendered with quiet intimacy and formal precision. The composition reflects Callahan’s masterful balance between figure and environment—where the human form becomes both subject and element within the broader rhythms of nature.

Renowned for his deeply personal and experimental approach to photography, Callahan explored light, texture, and composition with a poetic sensitivity that helped elevate photography within the fine arts. His selection to represent the United States at the 1978 Venice Biennale marked a historic moment, as he became the first photographer chosen for this role.

The poster’s refined typography and generous margins enhance the contemplative quality of the image, embodying the understated sophistication of museum exhibition design. A rare and important poster from the pre-digital poster era, with strong relevance to both photographic history and international exhibition culture. Framing available upon request.e the first photographer to represent the United States at this prestigious international exhibition