Philippe Halsman
Jean Cocteau "Jack of all Trades"
Jack of all Trades
This picture shows Jean Cocteau sprouting 6 arms, instead of the more commonly used 2. Some say that this picture is an accurate description of Cocteau's life, as he was a play writer, actor, director, designer, and filmmaker, truly a jack of all trades. Cocteau was born in France, and did many careers and hobbies in his time, earning him the label of jack of all trades.
History & Background
What was the photographers thought process?......Many people believe that this picture is the result of Halsman finding what Cocteau did as a career and forming it into a picture, because after all, a picture says a thousand words.
Why is this photo famous?......Most people think that this picture is famous because Cocteau is a famous French playwriter, actor, director, ect. and is very well known all throughout France and Europe.
Where was this picture taken?.....This picture was taken in a studio, with props that were used to convey the jack of all trades look. The props involved included a book, pen/pencil, and cigarette.
Something we can learn from Halsman is to think outside of the box. Don't be afraid to try something new, even if it's something that people might think that looks weird. The different things that you photograph is what makes your style your own, and what sets you apart from other artists.
Jean Cocteau
circa 1923
Philippe Halsman
unknown date
Jean Cocteau
unknown date
My opinion
My opinion on this picture is that while it is a very well taken photo, I don't like it as much as I like his other photos. It is a very unique photo; something I don't think any other photographer would think of. While I don't like the picture, simply because it doesn't draw me in as much as other pictures do, I would not change the way the picture is taken. It's hard for me to know if the photo captured the personality of Cocteau, but if I had to guess, I would say that it does.