Abelardo Morell: The Universe Next Door (Art Institute of Chicago)
Cuban-American photographer Morell (A Book of Books) has developed several photographic techniques, including the use of camera obscura and tent camera, all of which are highlighted in this exhibition catalogue. His "twenty-five years of work  motivated by the belief that camera images are full of wonder and reveal unseen beauty in the everyday world," writes Siegel, the exhibition's curator, in an opening essay that is both a poetic and biographical overview of the artist's career. Appendices include an interview with Morell, in which he discusses Cuban politics; the ways in which the tent camera technique was inspired by Western films; and his current digital photography equipment. A photo-illustrated, detailed chronology concludes the volume. Over 100 of Morell's photographs are beautifully reproduced on full pages, organized by themes and years. The earliest photos in this collection, dating from 1986, are inspired by the birth of his son; many explore the world from the viewpoint of a toddler, such as the rather intimidatingly tall pyramid of Toy Blocks. Later works examine the textures and contrasts of books and paper. Morell also explores motion; art and architecture, including through the use of camera obscura, color, and the tent camera. Readers from all walks will enjoy browsing through the photographs and learning more about Morell's innovative career. (July)