Summer in the USA and the Champion Pig

Arthur Grace's New Book STATE FAIR

May 11, 2006 - Zuma Press is pleased to bring to your attention for book review consideration State Fair, the latest book from Zuma photographer Arthur Grace. Traveling on a photographic odyssey through ten state fairs, Grace gives us a unique window into the American "heartland" and its culture as we enter the 21st century. His photographs deftly capture the traditional, the "kitsch", and the off-the-wall aspects of our vibrant democracy. Grace sums it up best in his introduction: "If aliens ever landed on Earth and you only had a few hours to show them what America was all about, all you would have to do is take them to any state fair. For me, a state fair is a microcosm of America --- in all its weirdness and glory --- at any given point in time."

Laced with traditions that are both endearing and bizarre, State Fair represents the true character of a traditional America. Grace takes us on a photographic journey of fairs through 10 states - and though the locations may vary, we're always able to find the patriotic glory of competition, food, and fun. Grace recalls being hooked on state fairs the moment he stepped into a butter sculpture competition and wasn't sure whether to laugh or applaud. Either way, he put his camera to his eye and let the comically overwhelming decision be ours.

State Fair is shot with candidly untailored black and white photographs that cut to the chase without being overly ostentatious, and without leaving out the raw emotion of the American spirit; patriotic, fun, and sometimes slightly off. "Art's unique vision and humor show once again that he is the consummate story teller. Grace is a photographer who, in classic Erwitt wit and style, brings back the bacon every time as he travels America showing true Americana circa 2005. State Fair will become a classic," says Scott Mc Kiernan, Director/Founder of ZUMA Press.

Flipping through the 96 duotone photographs in the book is an experience for more than just the eyes. You can just about smell the wafts of sawdust mixed with cow dung, cotton candy, corn dogs, and beer, and hear the roar of the thundering rides, marching band trumpets blaring, and kids screaming and laughing.

Arthur Grace began his photojournalistic career in 1973 as a staff photographer for United Press International, and has covered stories throughout the US and abroad for Time and Newsweek. His images have graced the covers of Life, New York Times Magazine, Paris Match, and Stern. His photos are included in the permanent collections of the International Center of Photography in NYC and the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. State Fair, just released in April 2006, is the third of Grace's book collection, including Choose Me: Portraits of a Presidential Race and Comedians.