Robin Muir

Under the Influence: John Deakin, Photography and the Lure of Soho

If there is such a thing as raw genius then John Deakin had it, and then some. There is no photographer’s work and being itself that arouses me more than John Deakin’s. It is little matter to me if his sickness made of him a bad boy, a drunk and irresponsible hire, or an impossible-to-handle apostate. He was a gifted artist of the first rank.

Robin Muir has captured in his text a feeling for John Deakin that no others have before him. His biography was the most detailed yet of any I have previously read and it was certainly well-written. The amazing collection of photographs, handbills, and correspondence included in the book also attest to the truth behind any previously made innuendo. Rarely these days do new art books employ the use of weighty fine paper and quality cloth hardboards. The publisher obviously spared no expense in the creation of this book. This is a volume to be treasured and displayed with gratitude for all who were involved in the production of this fine artifact.… (altro)