Boxers: Photographs & Introductions [Inscribed and Signed by Markus]

Markus's vivid memories of raising his fists, mano a mano, led him into the working-class barrios of Havana, Mexico City, Brooklyn, and Dublin, where the odds against celebrity and high-stakes prize fighting belie the drive that motivates these young men. In a series of intimate portraits infused with purpose, determination, and the physical and emotional struggles of intense training, Markus gives a more human face to a sport that rewards only those from its highest ranks. Far from the bright lights and stereotyped fame, these young fighters possess unrivaled dignity and grace.

Photographers have always loved the starkness and easy drama of boxing gyms. In this new book of boxing portraits taken in Brooklyn, Dublin, Havana, and Mexico City, Montana native Markus?who has previously evoked the risky, loner existence of the rodeo (Calf Roping, Western Horseman, 1984)?shows an understanding beyond the usual solemn and gritty shots of peeling fight posters, raised fists, and bowed heads. Markus communicates his respectful fascination without simply exploiting boxing's melodrama and broken noses. He hints at inner life, too: the jollity of Irish kids training in a Dublin attic or the blunt, wise faces of old Brooklyn trainers. Brief paragraphs by Kirn and seven others are sprinkled throughout. Yet while the photo reproductions are rich, there is something undersized about this project, especially considering the power its images might have had with a larger format and the good supporting texts of last year's lusher art books by photographers Charles Hoff (The Fights, Chronicle) and Larry Fink (Boxing, Powerhouse). Still, this is highly recommended for large sports or photography collections.?Nathan Ward, "Library Journal"
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.