"I had the Guggenheim, I had photos in the Museum of Modern Art and I was starving"
~ Max Yavno
(1911-1985)
"Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth"
~ Mike Tyson
I first met Max soon after I moved to California in 1979. In fact I purchased my first photo from him for $400 and became a “collector”. Perhaps I should put all the blame on his shoulders for my addiction. He had been somewhat overlooked and struggled to make a living from his art for most of his life. But he was one of the greats. A superb printer and an empathetic observer of life. I miss our stimulating conversations. “The Knockout” is an appropriate metaphor for anyone involved in the creative life, “Success” however you define it in boxing and indeed in life itself requires not just strength but also the ability to overcome adversity and keep fighting.
