City - Mayesville, Ga. USA State - GEORGIA USA Country - United States
About
No, I did not take this photo. As a matter of fact it was taken and printed in 1923. The model was a "scandulous" local woman whom Mr. Ellison was known to take Risque and nudes back in the 20's and 30's. This photo was supposedly confiscated by Law officials sometime in that era. Often the law would confiscate his nudes and "lock him up", and in meanwhile they (lawmen) would use photos of his models for blackmail. I own two of his original 8x10's and several smaller photos of portraits. James Ellison died very poor in 1966 in the tiny Georgia Town of MAYESVILLE, GA. about 70 miles east of Atlanta, Ga. He was far beyond his times in Mayesville, Ga in 1920's -1966. His grave is very poor looking , just as the era in which he lived. The original is in relatively good shape -considering it is almost 80 years of age. I added some retouching and added contrast with P/S.
Wow...what a story. A book could be written on his life and the proceeds go towards the upkeep of his grave as well as helping out young photographers.
Thankyou so much for sharing this Chuck. I have certainly learnt a lesson.