Man RAY and his unwavering support for André BRETON.

Man RAY (1890.1976)

Autograph letter signed to Henri Parisot.

Two pages large in-4°. Stamp of his Californian address at the head of the letter.

Hollywood. January 2, 1948.

« I would always be ready to collaborate on a surrealist review, just as I would never change my opinion on the value and importance of Breton. »

Man Ray demonstrates his unwavering support for André Breton and the surrealist movement.

“My dear friend, There you go! our letters crossed. That’s good – we think of each other. And after having written that I left the negative of Paul and Nusch in Paris, I have just found a proof in my papers. But before sending it to you I would like to have permission from Paul, because I have already had too many problems giving photos without it, even those already published. But Paul doesn't write often and that would be easier than you ask. I would always be ready to collaborate on a surrealist review, as I would never change my opinion on the value and importance of Breton , and if he wanted me I would give something. However I must say that I have abandoned the idea that my things are subversive or self-provoking. They are the ones who judge me rather than the subversives. I aspire to health, well-being, calm, and pleasure! It was always like this. I accept all invitations to collaborate, because I have my own little propaganda to do, and little by little, even here in this wild country I am scoring points . Breton was a little angry with me for having exhibited at the autumn show, and I explained it this way. I was assured that I would not go through the jury, and that's why I accepted. I am innocent of any calculation, and am not responsible for the motives of others. If you translate my text, be kind enough to show it to me, I could help you. As I told you, I hope to be back in Paris, because life here since my trip has been less tenable than ever. Kind regards to you. Man Ray. »

In 1940, worried about the national situation, Man Ray took refuge in California. He stayed there for more than ten years, before returning to settle in Paris in 1951.