(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1940 - 2015, New York, New York)
From the series "Tiny at Thirty"
1999 (printed 2004)
Selenium toned gelatin silver print
10 5/16 x 10 1/8 in. (26.2 x 25.7 cm)
Collection of the Akron Art Museum
Knight Purchase Fund for Photographic Media
2004.33
© Mary Ellen Mark Foundation
<SPAN xss=removed>A highly esteemed documentary photographer, Mary Ellen Mark made iconic portraits of celebrities, but was most deeply involved with documenting “the unfamous.” “I want to be a voice for the overlooked,” commented the artist. In 1983 Mark was sent by Life to photograph street kids in Seattle. She met “Tiny,” thirteen-year old Erin Blackwell, who sometimes lived on the street, supporting herself through prostitution. Mark’s return visits over 30 years, during which time Tiny had ten children by multiple fathers, were one of the few constants in her subject’s life. The photographer documented Tiny’s struggles with poverty, substance abuse and abusive partners and family, and also captured moments of joy and intimacy.</SPAN>