Jerry McMillan, a renowned photographer who significantly contributed to the documentation of Los Angeles' mid-century art movement, passed away on February 9 at the age of 89. His son mentioned that the cause was attributed to "old age and a broken heart," following the recent loss of his wife.
Born on December 7, 1936, in Oklahoma City, McMillan developed close friendships with artists Ed Ruscha and Joe Goode during his childhood. In 1957, he moved to Los Angeles to study at the Chouinard Art Institute, now known as the California Institute of the Arts, where he joined his friends in a creative collective dubbed the "Students Five."
Upon graduation, McMillan emerged as a pivotal figure in chronicling the burgeoning LA art scene, capturing images of his contemporaries and notable figures associated with the influential Ferus Gallery, including Ed Kienholz, Larry Bell, and Robert Irwin.
Andrew Perchuck, the interim director of the Getty Research Institute, highlighted McMillan's vital role in preserving the visual history of this vibrant era, noting that much of what is known about the LA art scene stems from his photographs.
McMillan not only documented artists but also played a crucial role in shaping their public images through his creative and often whimsical photography. He portrayed Ruscha in various imaginative scenarios, showcasing the complexities of his persona.
Among his iconic works, McMillan captured the strength of female artists like Judy Chicago, illustrating her bold spirit in a boxing ring while announcing her name change, symbolizing her fight against the male-dominated art world.
His innovative spirit extended to his pioneering photo-sculptures, challenging the traditional boundaries of photography. One of his early works, "Patty as Container," featured images of his pregnant wife printed on a box, exemplifying his exploration of the medium.
His groundbreaking contributions were recognized in significant exhibitions, including a 1966 show at the Pasadena Art Museum and the 1970 exhibition "Photography into Sculpture" at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. McMillan's work has left an indelible mark on the art world, paving the way for photography to be embraced as a legitimate fine art form.
