In the heart of New York, the Howard Greenberg Gallery presents “Written Once”, an exhibition that delves into the photographic journeys of the esteemed German filmmaker Wim Wenders. Running through March 15, 2025, this collection brings together images from the 1970s and 1980s, capturing moments when Wenders traversed the American West, either scouting locations for his films or attending cinematic events.
A distinctive feature of this exhibition is the inclusion of Wenders’ own narratives accompanying many of the photographs. These poetic musings offer a window into his creative process, blending visual art with storytelling. The title “Written Once” pays homage to two of his notable series: “Written in the West” (1983–1987) and “Once” (1977–1984).
Written in the West
In 1983, Wenders embarked on a road trip across the American West, aiming to immerse himself in its unique light and expansive landscapes as preparation for his iconic film, “Paris, Texas” (1984). His journey took him through Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California, where he captured scenes that resonate with the mythology of the frontier. This endeavor culminated in the “Written in the West” series, first showcased in 1986 at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
One striking photograph from this series is Quiet Sleep, Mojave, California, 1983. The image portrays a serene motel bathed in the soft glow of twilight, evoking a sense of solitude and introspection. The empty chairs and stillness suggest stories untold, inviting viewers to ponder the lives that once intersected in this quiet corner of the desert.
Reflecting on this project, Wenders noted, “It was another way of preparing for the film… I had never made a film in that landscape and was hoping that taking photographs would sharpen my understanding of the light and landscape.”
Once
Between the late 1970s and mid-1980s, Wenders documented his experiences in Hollywood, producing the “Once” series. Each photograph is paired with a brief anecdote beginning with “Once, I…,” weaving personal stories with imagery. These vignettes often feature interactions with cinematic legends such as Dennis Hopper, Isabella Rossellini, and Martin Scorsese.
A notable piece from this collection is When Martin Scorsese had a flat tire II, 1977. The photograph captures a candid moment in the Valley of the Gods, Utah, where Wenders stumbled upon Scorsese attempting to fix a flat tire, only to discover the rental car lacked a spare. This serendipitous encounter is emblematic of the unexpected adventures that often color the lives of filmmakers.
Wenders’ ability to blend photography and cinema is evident throughout the exhibition. His photographs transcend mere documentation; they are the beginnings of a film, as he eloquently describes: “Every photo, every ‘once’ in time is also the beginning of a story… Every photo is the first frame of a movie.”
Another evocative image, Lounge Painting No.1, Gila Bend, Arizona, 1983, presents the interior of a modest diner adorned with a vivid mural. The juxtaposition of the mural’s vibrant colors against the diner’s subdued ambiance creates a strong contrast. One can feel the filmmaker’s sharp eye and taste for romantic atmospheres.
“Written Once” offers a really charming visual journey, and an intimate glimpse into Wenders’ world.
“Written Once” is on view through March 15, 2025 at Howard Greenberg Gallery in New York.
