Seeing Across Generations with Constantine Manos, Stella Johnson, and Iaritza Menjivar

Artists often find their path by learning from those who came before them, using that foundation to develop their own vision. When Bell Pitkin, gallery manager at Leica Boston, began planning an exhibition on Boston photography across generations, it seemed only fitting to honor Constantine Manos—a celebrated Leica photographer and longtime Magnum member—who passed away this January at the age of 90. Manos inspired many, including Boston-based photographer Stella Johnson, who has since mentored Iaritza Menjivar. Their interwoven legacies have led to the exhibition “Seeing Across Generations,” on view at Leica Gallery Boston through September 14, 2025.
The show raises the question: what do the photographs of Manos, Johnson, and Menjivar have in common? Each is the child or grandchild of immigrants to the United States, shaped by the experience of moving between two cultures. That dual perspective resonates in their work, creating a shared sensibility rooted in empathy and human connection. Deeply influenced by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Manos was committed to capturing the “decisive moment”—a quality carried on by Johnson and, in her own way, by Menjivar. What links them most strongly, however, is their fascination with people. Seen together, their works reveal both striking parallels and generational differences, weaving a compelling visual narrative.
The exhibition includes Manos’ early black-and-white series Bostonians (1970s) and Portrait of a Symphony (1960s), courtesy of Robert Klein Gallery. Whether photographing orchestras or street gatherings, Manos balanced activity with compositional precision, often favoring subtle interactions over overt drama. The handprinted gelatin silver photographs on display not only highlight his mastery but also reinforce his deep ties to Boston, anchoring the exhibition’s theme of legacy.
Johnson contributes vivid color photographs from 2021–22, extending the story beyond Boston to other parts of the U.S. and to Oaxaca, Mexico, where she created black-and-white work in 2023–24. Her use of color recalls Manos’ celebrated American Color series in its brilliance and attention to fleeting moments. Like her mentor, she isolates individuals within crowds, though her compositions lean more toward drama and visual tension. Her recent black-and-white work, rich with mysticism and atmosphere, adds another dimension to her practice.
Menjivar, meanwhile, presents evocative color images exploring the emotional terrain between cultures. Influenced by the interplay of color and light in both Manos’ and Johnson’s work, her photographs carry a softer palette and a more introspective tone. With poetic gestures and dreamlike qualities, her imagery embodies the personal and the metaphorical, offering an intimate take on cultural duality and belonging.
Together, these three artists trace a lineage of vision and influence across generations. From Manos’ now-historic Boston scenes to Johnson’s expansive and dramatic images, and finally to Menjivar’s lyrical, personal explorations, Seeing Across Generations reveals a continuity of empathy and artistry that transcends time.
The exhibition is on view at Leica Gallery Boston through September 14, 2025.

 

Seeing Across Generations
through September 14, 2025
Leica Gallery Boston – USA

 

More info:

https://leicagalleryboston.com/

© Constantine Manos
© Constantine Manos
© Constantine Manos
© Constantine Manos
© Constantine Manos
© Iaritza Menjivar
© Iaritza Menjivar
© Iaritza Menjivar
© Iaritza Menjivar
© Stella Johnson
© Stella Johnson
© Stella Johnson


Log in with your credentials

or    

Forgot your details?

Create Account