Tim Jeffries
Hamiltons Gallery, in London’s Mayfair, was founded in 1977 and over 30 years has latterly established itself as one of the leading European prestige venues for photography. Hamiltons regularly features large on the international auction circuit, establishing record prices for modern master works of the photographic art. Owner and founder, Tim Jeffries’ own passion for the fine art of photographs is only matched by his more covert dedication to classic wristwatches, of which he is reputed to have an enviable collection
What is the first photographic image you remember that had any impact on you?
It was when I was a boy at the time of the NASA moon landings. There was a [now] famous image of a man standing on the moon - in his space suit with that reflection in his visor. That is the first really powerful photograph I remember and certainly an important image of the 20th century.
What was the first photograph you personally acquired?
Well, I've bought thousands of photographs over the 25 years I have been in business. I can't remember the actual first one but if I can expand the question a little. Working with Irving Penn and acquiring his work - either for the gallery or personally - has always been a significant landmark for me. It was a turning point in business for me and something I remember clearly and fondly.
What direction do you see the market moving - given the glut of digital and manipulated images being created by all and sundry?
Up, up, up ! Photography reflects what is happening in the art market. With the advent of digital and the manipulated image it is inevitable that traditional photography - which doesn't really exist anymore because manufacturers don't make the film or equipment - will cease to exist in our lifetimes. It will be a highly specialised media. Therefore, traditionally made photographs will attract new buyers and markets and become much more sought after - and more valuable as a result.
Can contemporary photographs really justify the astronomic values they have achieved at recent auctions?
Of course... look at the art market. Photographs are art! Artists using the camera - like Gursky, Richard Prince or Cindy Sherman - continue to achieve ever higher prices. As do Stieglitz, Steichen, Weston, Irving Penn or Richard Avedon! These masters of the medium are certainly comparable to Bacon or Warhol.
Which contemporary photographers do you consider have the potential to be ‘master’ calibre?
How do you define contemporary? Penn is 92 years old this year but he's still contemporary because he is still working. What makes a modern master is a lasting and continued contribution to the medium. Someone that breaks new ground or interprets existing ideas and takes them forward. If they achieve that, one is singled out - becomes singular - and achieves iconic status.
Is photography really the global language of our time?
The image is the global language of our time, be it a still or moving one. Of course without photography there would be no moving image. The printed, electronic or emailed image has transformed our lives.
What makes a photograph a 'work of art'
That's subjective ! Something distinctive - original. Something that has employed a degree of technical mastery. All or any of these. There are many brilliant artists that are never discovered. The gallery and dealer play an integral part in establishing an artist's position and reputation.
Which are the personal photographs you treasure the most?
Penn - as already stated. I own works by Avedon, Newton, Mapplethorpe... I'd grab them all in the case of a fire! Of course personal photographs are in a different category - wedding photos, me and my Mum when a child etc. - these are equally important for other reasons
Do you own a camera and/or take photographs yourself ?
I'm a holiday photographer. I take digital snaps - point and press - put them in my computer... and that's where they stay!
If we could magically transport you anywhere, to any point in time, to take - or direct a single photograph to be taken - what would it be?
Difficult. If I was going to go back in time there are so many things I would love to understand - like the Pyramids or Stonehenge. Actually... the creation of life. I'd like a photograph of that moment - the origin of Man!
