Open Letter from the Director

ICP
Feb 12, 2015
Mark Lubell. Photo by Tristan Balea.
Photo credit: Tristan Balea

This is an extraordinary moment in the history of photography and in the history of the International Center of Photography (ICP). Our founder, Cornell Capa, described photography as “the most vital, effective and universal means of communication of facts and ideas.” The power of images to cross barriers of language, geography, and culture is greater today than ever before — and so is their power to influence social change.

As the evolution of imagemaking continues, ICP is expanding to meet new opportunities. We are creating a new kind of institution that will build on the strength of our history while looking toward the future of the image.

Early next year, we will open a dynamic museum space in downtown New York and welcome visitors to our expansive new collection facility at Mana Contemporary in Jersey City, NJ. At the ICP School, Dean Fred Ritchin is developing inventive, new educational programs. The first of these is New Media Narratives, a one-year, full-time certificate program beginning in September that explores the possibilities of digital media.

In all our new initiatives, ICP remains at the center of conversations about images and the role they play in society. I look forward to seeing all of our members, visitors, and supporters in the School, at Mana Contemporary, and in our Museum on the Bowery.

Sincerely,
Mark Lubell
Executive Director

About the photographer: 
This portrait was made by Tristan Balea, a seven-year-old photographer who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 2014. During an intensive chemotherapy treatment he learned to cope and express his pain and joy through pictures. He continues to explore the power of images with the help of his mentor Robert G. Zuckerman, a motion picture industry photographer.