Michael Joseph (1941-) - Dive either way, Pool Ladies for Playboy US, authentic darkroom print on glossy paper
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Selected by Kai Brückner
Over 35 years' experience; former gallery owner and Museum Folkwang curator.
Estimate € 700 - € 900
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Description from the seller
“Dive Either Way” — Authentic Darkroom Print by Michael Joseph
London, 1980 — Signed and titled by the photographer
Offered here is a rare and evocative darkroom print born from one of those serendipitous moments that only the analogue process can deliver. While working with two of his negatives of poised poolside divers, the films slipped and overlaid unexpectedly. Instead of discarding the mistake, Michael Joseph recognised something powerful in the doubled forms — a rhythmic, mirrored choreography that transformed a simple scene into a hypnotic visual mantra.
He decided to print it exactly as it appeared: layered, surreal, and alive with motion.
From that choice came “Dive Either Way.”
The title was Joseph’s nod to the complicated, uncertain mood of the times. In an age where clarity felt elusive, the image seemed to suggest its own philosophy: that whether you lean left or right, forward or backward — you still have to commit. Still have to jump. Still have to dive.
This authentic darkroom print shows the unmistakable depth, grain, and silver richness of true analogue work. The composition is both dynamic and meditative, with the divers’ forms repeating like a visual echo, their reflections dissolving into the shimmer of the water.
A rare collector’s piece from an artist who embraced both precision and accident, control and chance — and who understood that sometimes the most compelling images arise when the darkroom has its own ideas.
Signed Michael Joseph and titled “Dive Either Way” in his hand.
Carefully packaged with full respect for its history and craftsmanship.
Seller's Story
My father, Michael Joseph, was an advertising photographer based in London from the mid-sixties to the early nineties. During that time, he created some truly remarkable work — his most famous moment being the Beggars Banquet gatefold for the Rolling Stones.
My ongoing mission is to share and celebrate what we call 'the other photos' — the lesser-known but equally captivating pieces from his archive. Within this collection, you'll find a mix of test prints, images from specific photo shoots, and more personal works, all created with his characteristic passion and devotion.
Many of these images owe their atmosphere to the magic of the darkroom: intricate group scenes, striking still lifes, and moments that draw the viewer in and stir emotion. Variety is key - and I often offer unique, one-off pieces.
I hope you enjoy discovering my father’s work, and I look forward to sending you a genuine piece of photographic history.
Translated by Google Translate“Dive Either Way” — Authentic Darkroom Print by Michael Joseph
London, 1980 — Signed and titled by the photographer
Offered here is a rare and evocative darkroom print born from one of those serendipitous moments that only the analogue process can deliver. While working with two of his negatives of poised poolside divers, the films slipped and overlaid unexpectedly. Instead of discarding the mistake, Michael Joseph recognised something powerful in the doubled forms — a rhythmic, mirrored choreography that transformed a simple scene into a hypnotic visual mantra.
He decided to print it exactly as it appeared: layered, surreal, and alive with motion.
From that choice came “Dive Either Way.”
The title was Joseph’s nod to the complicated, uncertain mood of the times. In an age where clarity felt elusive, the image seemed to suggest its own philosophy: that whether you lean left or right, forward or backward — you still have to commit. Still have to jump. Still have to dive.
This authentic darkroom print shows the unmistakable depth, grain, and silver richness of true analogue work. The composition is both dynamic and meditative, with the divers’ forms repeating like a visual echo, their reflections dissolving into the shimmer of the water.
A rare collector’s piece from an artist who embraced both precision and accident, control and chance — and who understood that sometimes the most compelling images arise when the darkroom has its own ideas.
Signed Michael Joseph and titled “Dive Either Way” in his hand.
Carefully packaged with full respect for its history and craftsmanship.
Seller's Story
My father, Michael Joseph, was an advertising photographer based in London from the mid-sixties to the early nineties. During that time, he created some truly remarkable work — his most famous moment being the Beggars Banquet gatefold for the Rolling Stones.
My ongoing mission is to share and celebrate what we call 'the other photos' — the lesser-known but equally captivating pieces from his archive. Within this collection, you'll find a mix of test prints, images from specific photo shoots, and more personal works, all created with his characteristic passion and devotion.
Many of these images owe their atmosphere to the magic of the darkroom: intricate group scenes, striking still lifes, and moments that draw the viewer in and stir emotion. Variety is key - and I often offer unique, one-off pieces.
I hope you enjoy discovering my father’s work, and I look forward to sending you a genuine piece of photographic history.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Date of print
1987
Artist
Michael Joseph (1941-)
Sold by
Owner or reseller
Title of artwork
Dive either way, Pool Ladies for Playboy US, authentic darkroom print on glossy paper
Condition
Original State
Technique
Gelatin-silver print
Height
30 cm
Edition
From original negatives
Width
30 cm
Signature
Hand signed
Genre
Nude
Sold by
