Stealing Churchill’s Cigar and Freezing a Moment of History
You know you’ve captured something special when your subject’s frown becomes a symbol of resolve for an entire country. That’s exactly what happened on 30th December 1941, when renowned portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh captured the iconic image of England’s indomitable wartime prime minister, Winston Churchill. This shot has become one of the most famous portraits of the twentieth century, immortalised in history books. But, like with any great event, what happened behind the scenes adds another element of fascination. Let me take you back to that time and explain what happened before and after the famed click.
Before delving into the story of that remarkable photoshoot, it’s important to learn a little bit about the man who organised it: Yousuf Karsh.
Karsh was born in Mardin, Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) in 1908 and grew up in a difficult environment. His Armenian family escaped to avoid persecution during the Armenian Genocide, and he arrived in Canada as a refugee as a teenager. Fortunately, Karsh’s uncle, a photographer from Quebec, took him in and exposed him to the world of photography.
Karsh’s interest in photography grew significantly. He subsequently relocated to Boston to apprentice with John H. Garo, a renowned portrait photographer who trained him and polished his ability to capture not only faces, but the spirit of personality. When Karsh returned to Canada in the mid-1930s, he immediately established a reputation for more than just technical photography; it could portray his subjects’ inner strength, personality, and character. Karsh believed that with the right lighting and creativity, a good portrait might disclose a person’s essence.
Over the years, he photographed many notable figures, including Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway, Queen Elizabeth II, and Pablo Picasso. But the actual turning point in his career, his breakthrough moment, occurred when he pointed his camera at Winston Churchill.
It was December 1941, and World War II had engulfed Europe. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister, had travelled to Ottawa to address the Canadian Parliament, rousing support for the Allies and cementing support in the fight against the Axis forces. It was a really anxious period. Churchill had recently visited Washington, D.C., where he met with U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt to discuss post-Pearl Harbour strategy. The globe was keeping a careful eye on Churchill’s next destination, Canada.
Someone in Ottawa, aware of Karsh’s rising reputation as a photographer of influential people, arranged for him to photograph the British prime minister while he was visiting Parliament. Nobody, including Churchill, could have guessed that the ensuing photograph would capture a specific tone across the whole Allied effort.
Churchill was not too thrilled on the idea of being photographed that day. He had just delivered an important, emotionally charged address in which he guaranteed the world of Britain’s determination to continue fighting Nazi aggression. He was fatigued from the speech and didn’t want to take a photograph. However, as part of the diplomatic niceties, Churchill grudgingly consented to represent Karsh in the Speaker’s Chambers of the Canadian Parliament.
Imagine this scenario: you’ve just done one of the most important speeches of your life, you’re jet-lagged, and exhausted from constant strategic conversations — and now someone wants to flash a camera at you? It’s unsurprising that Churchill was not overjoyed. Karsh, understanding Churchill’s prominence, was understandably concerned. Not only was the prime minister losing patience, but time was running out—he only had a few fleeting moments to get this right.
Churchill was known for his love of cigars, and when he sat down, he held one of his characteristic smokes in his hand. He cut an imposing figure. Recognising that the cigar would interfere with the composition of the shot and intending to convey Churchill’s serious and determined demeanour, Karsh kindly asked Churchill if he would mind removing the cigar. No dice. Churchill, who was known for his sharp wit and occasional grumpiness, just declined and continued to ruminate, the cigar dangling from his mouth unbothered.
This is where the scene takes a dramatic change, and it may be one of the most bold actions in photographic history. Karsh performed something unexpected given his restricted options. Karsh made a brave and hazardous move by confidently approaching Churchill and, without warning, plucked the cigar right out of his mouth. It felt like time had stopped. Imagine everyone in the room gasping together. Karsh later admitted he didn’t know how Churchill would respond. The tension was palpable.
Churchill was well-known for his fiery temper. Enraged, he gave Karsh a fierce scowl, furrowing his brows deeply and pressing his lips closely together. This was one of the most defiant moments I’ve ever witnessed. But then, click ! The exact photograph that would become legendary was captured.
Karsh unwittingly captured “the roar of the lion,” a phrase commonly popularised to symbolise Churchill’s determination and resilience throughout WWII. The photograph became more than just a snapshot of a man; it also represented an unwavering nation striving for survival in the face of hardship.
Following the tremendous moment, the storm dissipated soon. As the old Churchill charm reappeared, the prime minister relaxed and let Karsh shoot several more photos of him. According to Karsh, once the cigar incident was out of Churchill’s system, he relaxed and even grinned. The follow-up images revealed a more relaxed, friendly look. However, none of those images caught the strong intent imprinted in the initial scowling image. Later, Churchill reportedly told Karsh: “You can even make a roaring lion stand still to be photographed.” Karsh’s calculated risk could have gone horribly wrong, but instead earned him Churchill’s reluctant admiration.
That one shot grew to become more than just a portrait. It was published in “Life” magazine and seen by millions of people at a time when Allied morale was desperately low. The image became a visual monument to Britain’s unwavering resolve and leadership during a difficult and uncertain period.
Karsh’s painting of Winston Churchill was recognised not only for its artistic merit, but also as a symbol of something larger: the fight against Nazism. In historical movies, classrooms, and biographies, the image serves as an everlasting memory of WWII and the leadership that propelled the Allies to triumph.
For Yousuf Karsh, the Churchill portrait was a game changer. He quickly rose to prominence as one of the world’s most sought-after photographers. His ability to capture the essence of powerful individuals became his signature. He later stated that the Churchill shot was the defining moment in his career, establishing a legacy that would last for decades.
His career extended six decades, and he photographed approximately 15,000 people, including practically everyone of importance in politics, the arts, and more. Karsh has now been credited for capturing 51 of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century.
Despite his prominence, Karsh was always humble. He didn’t desire power for its own reason; rather, he was genuinely interested in capturing the human spirit underlying the titles and positions. His concept was straightforward: no subject was too important or small, and everyone possessed something particularly powerful within them. And it was his responsibility to convey it to the world.
Regardless of his accomplishments, one thing was certain: the photograph of Winston Churchill was unrivalled. Capturing that moment of defiance, a man who represented the spirit of resistance in the face of overwhelming odds, cemented Yousuf Karsh’s place as a photographic legend, inextricably linked to one of the twentieth century’s most recognised leaders.
Though Karsh went on to take countless classic photos during his long and illustrious career, the photograph of Churchill remains unique. What makes it timeless isn’t just the scowl; it’s the context, the tension in the room, the world on the verge of anarchy, and a photographer willing to push his powerful subject to his breaking point.
The painting was more than just about Winston Churchill; it expressed the collective spirit of resistance and determination that pervaded the Allied nations during WWII. And in the little room where Yousuf Karsh confronted a disgruntled prime minister and flicked his cigar away, history was not only documented, but also created.
Art of Observation: How Andre Zuardi Captures The Magic of Travel
Andre Zuardi’s lens captures more than just images; it conveys experiences. Andre has travelled to isolated parts of the world with Mahacaraka® – The Art of Travel, where he has captured encounters and feelings in stunning images. We sat down with Andre to see the world via his lens and learn tips for aspiring travel photographers.
“Travelling with Mahacaraka was a turning point,” Andre explains. “We went beyond the typical tourist destinations, discovering hidden gems. It was a cultural and historical immersion that had a profound impact on my photography. Andre emphasises the value of human connection in street photography. “Meeting other participants, particularly Sandy, The Leader of Mahacaraka® – The Art of Travel, sparked discussions about style and technique.” “It was an ongoing learning experience.”
So, how does Andre select his destinations? “Movies frequently ignite my travel spark,” he admits. “Upon arrival, I may seek for a scene from the film, but then I push myself to discover a fresh perspective. The idea is not to imitate, but to establish a new perspective.” Andre emphasises the importance of research as well. “Delving into a country’s history often leads me to ‘exotic’ locations, places waiting to be discovered through my lens.”
We asked Andre to contribute a photo that represents his inspiration. He points to New York City’s shot. It shot captures the essence of the city for me,” he says. “The iconic blue and white buses and the steam rising from tube grates – it’s a scene straight out of Scorsese’s Taxi Driver, yet it’s my own interpretation.” Andre’s ability to combine cinematic elements with his personal perspective is a defining feature of his style.
Andre believes that street photography is about freedom and capturing fleeting moments. “It’s the ability to observe and shoot without restrictions,” he states. “It’s about reacting swiftly to a circumstance that will never play out the same way again. I pick a captivating backdrop and then become an observer, looking for the right element to complete the composition.” Andre’s approach is similar to street casting, in which the photographer takes on the role of director, scouting locations and waiting for the perfect actors to materialise and bring the scenario to life.
Andre’s advise for prospective street photographers is simple: “Train your eye to observe, be quick to shoot, and resist the urge to constantly review your photos.” He emphasises the value of patience and mindfulness. “The best photos are often the ones you weren’t expecting, the moments that unfold organically when you’re fully present in the scene.” Andre’s concept extends beyond technical expertise; it is about building a sense of anticipation and attention while seeing the world unfold in front of your lens.
Beyond the interview, Andre’s fascinating images offer a visual voyage throughout the world. So, bring your camera, prepare for the unexpected, and let the world inspire your distinct vision.
Capturing the Spirit of the Asia-Africa Conference
Paul Tedjasurja, born on 19 August 1930 in Surabaya, was a dedicated photographer whose contribution to recording one of the most monumental events in Asian and African history, the Asia-Africa Conference in 1955, is unequalled.
He began his photography career in Bandung in 1949, two years after moving, working as a freelance photojournalist for “Gembira” magazine and the “Preanger Foto” agency. His extraordinary artistic abilities were recognised, resulting in contributions to Pikiran Rakjat in 1953.
The Bandung Conference, also known as the Asia-Africa Conference, took place from April 18 to 24, 1955, in Bandung, Indonesia, and was the first international gathering of newly independent Asian and African states. Its goals were to promote international peace and cooperation while condemning colonialism and neocolonialism, providing the groundwork for the Non-Alignment Movement.
Tedjasurja, a 25-year-old freelance photographer, captured around 300 photographs of this historic occasion. He immortalised various moments with his Leica III F camera, a gift from his prospective father-in-law, supplemented by an 8-kilogram flash, additional lighting apparatus, and numerous rolls of black and white film, including the arrival of foreign delegates at Husein Sastranegara Airport, conference proceedings at Merdeka Building, banquets, and the exuberance of bystanders.
Unfortunately, not all of Tedjasurja’s photographic collection survived. A government official borrowed photographs and negatives from the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference but neglected to return them, so their whereabouts are unknown to this day.
Despite this setback, Tedjasurja’s collaborators digitally conserved 63 of his images for the 50th anniversary of the Asia-Africa Conference in April of 2005. These photographs were later included in the book “Bandung 1955: Moments of the Asian African Conference,” which commemorated the conference’s 60th anniversary in April 2015.
Unfortunately, Paul Tedjasurja died on March 27, 2020. His essential contributions to recording the Asia-Africa Conference demonstrate his photographic expertise and passion. His legacy continues to illuminate this momentous event, allowing future generations to better comprehend and appreciate this critical chapter in Asian and African history.
Elisabet's Odyssey Through Cultures and Moments
Within the enormous expanse of photography, photos cease to be just snapshots and instead become portals into the core of cultures, tales, and the human experience. In this domain, Elisabet Chintia stands out, her camera capturing not just moments, but the soul of our variegated planet.
In an exclusive interview with Mahacaraka® Press, Elisabet reveals the core of her photographic journey—her passion, her obstacles, and the deep encounters that changed her viewpoint.
What does photography mean to you?
“For me, photography is about direct observation, whether through a lens or with the unaided eye, immersing myself in the complexities of global cultures and celebrations,” says Elisabet. Photography, for her, is a means of cultural discovery and personal expression.
Could you recount a memorable ‘behind-the-lens’ experience from your recent travels?
“The most gratifying aspect for me is capturing portraits of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, each with their unique facial features and cultural nuances,” she says. Through her lens, she not only captures photographs but also digs into her subjects’ souls, weaving their experiences into her visual tapestry.
What is the most challenging aspect of photographing in unfamiliar environments, and how do you overcome it?
“Adapting to unfamiliar environments, be it extreme weather or unfamiliar cultures, poses a challenge,” she says. However, she approaches these challenges with humility and thankfulness, seeing them as chances for personal development and cultural immersion.
As you travel the globe, which local culture fascinates you the most?
“For me, the allure lies in Himalaya, Africa and India, where every tribe boasts its own unique customs, attire, and architectural marvels,” she says. She finds her inspiration in these varied cultural landscapes, capturing the essence of diversity with each click of her camera.
Can you summarise your photographic philosophy in a single sentence?
“Embrace the unique essence of each destination you visit,” Elisabet suggests. Through her lens, she welcomes viewers on a visual trip, encouraging them to enjoy the world’s many treasures with open hearts and questioning minds.
Elisabet’s insightful thoughts are accompanied with glimpses of her exceptional photography—timeless images that capture the soul of a location or the spirit of its people.
Through Elisabet Chintia’s vision, we are taken beyond geographical limits to a world where cultures collide, tales connect, and mankind discovers a common thread. Her photographs are more than just images; they are invitations to explore, connect, and celebrate the kaleidoscope of life that unfolds before us.
Sebastiao Salgado: The Man Who Photographed The World
Born in Aimorés, Brazil in 1944, Sebastião Salgado studied economics before switching to photography in 1973. His economic experience was put to use at the World Bank before his photographic adventure brought him to Magnum Photos in 1979. He started Amazonas Images alongside his wife, Lélia. Over the course of his five-decade career, he has visited over 120 nations, photographing major moments and concerns.
He is known for his striking black and white compositions, which combine creative talent with a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility. His widely regarded paintings, including “The Other Americas,” “Sahel,” “Workers,” “Migrations,” and “Genesis,” provide detailed record of human life and our planet’s delicate state. He has received multiple accolades for his contributions to photography, including the W. Eugene Smith Grant, the Royal Photographic Society Centenary Medal, and the Sony World Photography accolades’ Outstanding Contribution to Photography honour. In addition to his photography, Salgado is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and a member of France’s Académie des Beaux-Arts.
Salgado’s corpus of work is distinguished by his dedication to long-term, self-initiated undertakings that include much research and writing. With a strong sense of humanity, he investigates issues such as poverty, migration, labour, human rights, and ecology, appreciating worldwide cultural diversity while pushing for environmental conservation.
I have a way to photograph. You work with space, you have a camera, you have a frame, and then a fraction of a second. It’s very instinctive. What you do is a fraction of a second, it’s there and it’s not there. But in this fraction of a second comes your past, comes your future, comes your relation with people, comes your ideology, comes your hate, comes your love – all together in this fraction of a second, it materializes there.
Sebastiao Salgado
His influence goes beyond photography, shaping the perspectives of other artists and sparking critical debates on global issues. He actively supports efforts to better people’s lives and safeguard ecosystems, particularly through the Instituto Terra, which he and his wife founded in 1998 to restore Brazil’s Atlantic Forest.
Although Salgado has retired from active fieldwork, his passion for storytelling endures. He currently spends his time collecting his huge database of over 500,000 photographs, ready to share his life’s work with the world. He continues to take part in exhibitions and partnerships, such as the Sony World Photography Awards 2024 in London and a project with the Wende Museum in Los Angeles, all with a focus on capturing the Amazon jungle.
In reflecting on his legacy, Salgado expresses thanks for his diverse life experiences. He sees his work as more than just a portrayal of the globe; it is a monument to the beauty and hardships that humanity faces. He hopes that his images will serve as a compelling reminder to future generations of the critical need to safeguard and preserve our world.
Behind the Enigmatic Lens of Vivian Maier
In the annals of photographic history, a name emerges, shrouded in mystery yet illuminated by the brilliance of her captured moments – Vivian Maier. Born in the bustling metropolis of New York City in 1926, Maier’s life unfolded as a tapestry of enigmatic hues, her story as captivating as the images she left behind. Like an undiscovered constellation in the vast expanse of the cosmos, her work emerged from obscurity, leaving the world spellbound by its raw beauty and unfiltered authenticity.
Maier’s journey into the realm of photography began as an unassuming pursuit, a humble hobby interwoven into the fabric of her daily life. For decades, she served as a nanny, traversing the bustling streets of Chicago with her trusty Rolleiflex camera in hand, her lens serving as a silent observer of the human condition. Little did the world know that within the confines of her unassuming persona lay a treasure trove of photographic brilliance waiting to be unearthed.
It wasn’t until 2007, two years prior to her passing, that Maier’s photographic legacy was thrust into the limelight. A serendipitous discovery by amateur historian John Maloof, who stumbled upon a trove of her undeveloped film negatives at a local auction, ignited a spark that would illuminate Maier’s path to posthumous acclaim. What emerged from the depths of anonymity was a body of work unparalleled in its breadth and depth, a testament to Maier’s unparalleled eye for composition and her uncanny ability to capture the essence of life in all its myriad forms.
Maier’s photography transcends the constraints of time and space, offering a poignant window into the soul of mid-20th century America. Her subjects, ranging from the destitute denizens of the urban landscape to the serene scenes of suburban life, reflect a keen sense of empathy and compassion. Through her lens, she immortalized moments of quiet introspection and fleeting joy, each frame a testament to the indomitable human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.
What sets Maier apart from her contemporaries is not merely the sheer volume of her work but also the striking intimacy with which she approached her subjects. Unlike many street photographers of her time, Maier eschewed the role of the detached observer, instead immersing herself fully in the lives of those she photographed. This intimacy is palpable in the hauntingly evocative portraits that populate her oeuvre, each one a testament to the profound connection she forged with her subjects.
Yet, for all the acclaim that Maier’s work has garnered in the years since its discovery, the woman behind the lens remains a tantalizing enigma. Much of her life remains shrouded in mystery, her motivations and innermost thoughts lost to the passage of time. Was she a reluctant artist, content to let her work speak for itself? Or was photography simply a means of coping with the tumultuous currents of her own life?
As we delve deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of Maier’s psyche, one thing becomes abundantly clear – her legacy is as enduring as it is enigmatic. In a world increasingly inundated with digital ephemera, her photographs serve as a poignant reminder of the power of the human gaze to transcend the limitations of time and space. Like a silent witness to the passage of history, Maier’s work continues to inspire and captivate, inviting us to ponder the timeless mysteries of the human experience.
The Miaz Brothers' Journey Through the Veil of Reality
In the ever-evolving realm of contemporary art, where boundaries are continually pushed and perceptions challenged, the enigmatic duo known as the Miaz Brothers stand as pioneers of a unique genre within the world of photography. Their work transcends conventional definitions, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, leaving viewers entranced by the ethereal beauty of their creations.
Hailing from Milan, Italy, the Miaz Brothers, Roberto and Renato, have garnered international acclaim for their mesmerizing portraits that defy traditional techniques and perceptions of visual art. Their journey into the world of photography began as a quest to capture the essence of human emotion and the transient nature of existence. However, what sets them apart is their unorthodox approach to the medium, utilizing a technique they have coined as “blurism.”
At first glance, their portraits appear to be veiled in a haze, with subjects seemingly emerging from the depths of memory or dreams. Yet, upon closer inspection, one realizes that this effect is not achieved through digital manipulation or post-processing trickery, but rather through meticulous application of spray paint onto canvas. The result is a hauntingly beautiful fusion of photography and painting, where the boundaries between the two dissolve, leaving behind a narrative that is at once familiar and otherworldly.
The Miaz Brothers draw inspiration from a myriad of sources, ranging from classical portraiture to contemporary street art. Their work is a testament to the power of collaboration, as they seamlessly blend their individual visions to create a singular, cohesive aesthetic. Each portrait tells a story, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection.
One of the most striking aspects of the Miaz Brothers’ work is their ability to evoke a sense of timelessness. Their portraits transcend temporal boundaries, existing in a realm where past, present, and future converge. In doing so, they challenge the viewer to reconsider their preconceived notions of reality and perception, prompting a deeper exploration of the human psyche.
In recent years, the Miaz Brothers have expanded their artistic repertoire beyond traditional portraiture, exploring themes of identity, memory, and cultural heritage. Their installations have graced galleries and museums around the world, captivating audiences with their haunting beauty and thought-provoking concepts.
Despite their growing international acclaim, the Miaz Brothers remain humble and grounded, viewing their work as a reflection of the collective human experience. Through their art, they seek to foster empathy, understanding, and connection in an increasingly fragmented world.
As we navigate the complexities of the modern age, the Miaz Brothers serve as beacons of inspiration, reminding us of the boundless potential of the human spirit. Theirs is a journey of exploration and discovery, a testament to the enduring power of creativity to transcend barriers and unite us all in a shared celebration of beauty and wonder. In a world filled with noise and chaos, their art speaks volumes, whispering truths that resonate across time and space.
Man Ray: Exploring the Surreal through Lens and Light
In the annals of photography, few names evoke as much intrigue, creativity, and sheer surrealism as that of Man Ray. Born Emmanuel Radnitzky on August 27, 1890, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this enigmatic artist became a pioneer of both modernist photography and the surrealist movement, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and imagery. Man Ray’s journey into the realm of photography began in the early 20th century when he moved to New York City and became involved in the burgeoning avant-garde scene. Inspired by the works of European artists such as Marcel Duchamp and Francis Picabia, he quickly embraced the principles of Dadaism, an artistic movement characterized by its rejection of traditional norms and its embrace of chaos and absurdity.
It was during this time that Man Ray began experimenting with photography as a means of artistic expression. Rejecting the conventional techniques of the day, he instead embraced unconventional methods such as solarization, multiple exposures, and photograms – a process that involves placing objects directly onto light-sensitive paper and exposing them to light. These techniques not only challenged the boundaries of traditional photography but also allowed Man Ray to create images that were hauntingly surreal and deeply symbolic.
One of Man Ray’s most iconic works from this period is “Le Violon d’Ingres” (Ingres’s Violin), a photograph that depicts a nude woman with f-holes painted onto her back, resembling the sound holes of a violin. The image is a striking juxtaposition of classical beauty and modernist abstraction, embodying the surrealistic ethos that defined much of Man Ray’s work.
In 1921, Man Ray moved to Paris, where he became a central figure in the city’s vibrant artistic community. It was here that he became associated with the surrealist movement, a group of artists and writers who sought to unlock the creative potential of the unconscious mind. Alongside luminaries such as André Breton and Salvador Dalí, Man Ray helped to define the visual language of surrealism, producing a body of work that blurred the line between dreams and reality.
One of Man Ray’s most famous surrealist photographs is “L’Enigme d’Isidore Ducasse” (The Enigma of Isidore Ducasse), a haunting portrait of a disembodied female head shrouded in fabric. The image is a meditation on the mysterious and the unknowable, inviting viewers to contemplate the enigmatic nature of existence itself.
Throughout his career, Man Ray continued to push the boundaries of photography, experimenting with new techniques and pushing the medium to its limits. He was a master of light and shadow, using them to create images that were at once ethereal and hauntingly beautiful.
In addition to his work as a photographer, Man Ray was also a skilled painter and sculptor, creating works that were imbued with the same sense of surrealism and experimentation that defined his photographic oeuvre. His multidisciplinary approach to artmaking allowed him to explore a wide range of themes and ideas, from the nature of reality to the passage of time.
Despite his prolific output and enduring influence, Man Ray’s work was not always well-received by the mainstream art world. His unconventional techniques and avant-garde sensibilities often baffled critics and audiences alike, leading to periods of obscurity and neglect.
However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Man Ray and his contributions to the world of photography. His work continues to inspire artists and photographers around the world, reminding us of the boundless possibilities of the medium and the power of imagination.
As we reflect on the legacy of Man Ray, we are reminded of the transformative power of art to challenge our perceptions, expand our minds, and transport us to new and uncharted territories. In an age of digital manipulation and instant gratification, his work serves as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the eternal quest for beauty and meaning in the world around us.