Will McBride Boys at Lake’s Edge, Berlin, 1959

Silver gelatin photograph
Image 28 x 19 cm (11.02 x 7.48 in.)
Page 30 x 24 cm (11.81 x 9.44 in.)
Signed and titled, verso (original title Boys at Lake’s Edge, Berlin, 1959)

Will McBride (1931–2015) was an American-born photographer and artist, renowned for his ability to capture moments of raw intimacy, youth, and vulnerability. His work, which spans portraiture, documentary photography, and fine art, is characterized by a candid, often unfiltered approach to his subjects, particularly young people. McBride’s photography frequently delved into themes of adolescence, masculinity, and personal identity, making him a significant figure in post-war photography.

McBride is perhaps best known for his collaborations with *Twen* magazine in the 1960s, where his avant-garde and sometimes controversial images pushed the boundaries of socially acceptable photography. His seminal book *Show Me!* (1974), which featured photographs exploring human sexuality and relationships, further cemented his reputation as a provocative and daring artist, though it also sparked debate and censorship.

In addition to his photography, McBride was also a skilled painter and sculptor. His work is noted for its deep empathy, capturing both the physicality and emotional depth of his subjects with a stark, authentic beauty. McBride spent much of his life in Germany, where his influence on European visual culture remains strong.